Dog Swallowed Jewelry? Signs, Dangers & First Steps
Beyond the immediate concern of choking hazards, ingesting foreign objects can pose serious health risks, from blockages in the digestive tract to toxic reactions from certain materials. If your dog swallowed jewelry or small accessories, you must act quickly to prevent any future complications.
Why Would a Dog Eat Jewelry or Accessories?
It might seem strange that a dog would eat metal or plastic accessories, but it happens more often than you’d think. Here are some common reasons:
Curiosity
Jewelry is shiny, scented (from your skin or lotion), and often dangly or textured. It naturally draws a dog’s attention, especially puppies.
Teething or Chewing Instincts
Dogs, especially younger ones, love to chew. If your jewelry is left within reach, they may gnaw on it and accidentally swallow it.
Boredom or Anxiety
Dogs lacking mental stimulation or experiencing separation anxiety might chew on whatever they can find, including accessories lying around.
Mistaken for Toys or Treats
Some jewelry or hair clips are bright, soft, or resemble bones, rubber, or rawhide. This can lead your dog to think it’s something edible.
Dangers If Your Dog Swallowed Jewelry
Material
- Metal: Heavy metals like lead, zinc, or copper (sometimes used in costume jewelry) can cause toxicity.
- Plastic: While not toxic, it can cause choking or digestive blockages.
- Elastic or rubber: Found in hair ties and some bracelets—these can bunch up and cause internal obstruction.
Shape
- Sharp items (like earrings, brooch pins, or broken fragments) can puncture or tear the gastrointestinal lining.
- Rings or beads can cause choking or get stuck in the esophagus or intestines.
Size
Even soft or rounded items can cause a blockage if they’re too large to pass through the digestive system.
Toxic coatings
Some accessories are coated in varnish, paint, or glitter that may contain harmful chemicals or metals.
Signs Your Dog May Have Swallowed Jewelry
After ingesting jewelry or an accessory, symptoms can show up immediately or take hours to days, depending on whether the item is causing an obstruction, irritation, or toxicity.
Behavioral Indicators
You know your dog best, so trust your instincts. If your usually lively pup suddenly turns into a couch potato or appears lethargic, it might be time to investigate. Other behavioral clues include signs like pacing, whining, or even trying to vomit.
Physical Symptoms
Vomiting, diarrhea, or a swollen belly could indicate issues stemming from ingested jewelry. Gagging or pawing at the mouth is also a red flag.
What To Do If Your Dog Swallowed Jewelry
Step 1: Stay Calm
Panicking can make it harder to act fast. Take a deep breath and focus on the next steps.
Step 2: Identify the Item
Try to determine what exactly was swallowed. Was it metal? Plastic? Was it sharp or round? Knowing this will help your vet assess the risk.
If you have a similar item, take a photo or bring it to the vet.
Step 3: Do NOT Induce Vomiting
Unless explicitly directed by your vet, do not try to make your dog throw up. Sharp or large objects can do more damage coming up than going down.
Step 4: Call Your Vet or Emergency Animal Hospital
Tell them what happened, what the object was, and whether your dog is showing symptoms. Follow their instructions carefully. You can also consult an online vet on our app to decide on the next steps. Try it here.
If they recommend coming in, go immediately. Some situations are emergencies and can’t wait.
What Happens at the Vet After Dog Swallowed Jewelry
Once you’re at the vet’s office, here’s what you can expect:
Physical Examination
Your vet will check your dog’s vitals, feel for abdominal pain, and ask about the object and any symptoms.
Imaging
Most jewelry shows up on X-rays, especially if it contains metal. If it doesn’t, your vet may use ultrasound or contrast radiographs (where your dog drinks a dye to help the object show up).
Blood Tests
If there’s a concern about metal poisoning, such as zinc, lead, or copper toxicity, bloodwork will be used to evaluate red blood cells, liver, and kidney function.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the object, how long it’s been inside, and where it’s located.
If The Object Is Inside the Stomach
- Endoscopy may be used to safely remove it without surgery.
- If removal isn’t urgent, your vet might recommend monitoring and a soft diet to help it pass.
If The Object is Causing a Blockage or Damage
- Surgery may be needed to remove the item and repair tissue damage.
- IV fluids, antibiotics, and pain medications will be provided.
Recovery and Aftercare at Home
After your dog returns home from the vet or after passing the item safely, follow these tips to support recovery:
Bland Diet
Feed easily digestible foods like boiled chicken and rice for several days. This reduces stress on the digestive system.
Monitor Stool
Check bowel movements for signs the object passed (if vet opted for watchful waiting). Use gloves and check for any signs of blood or metal.
Keep Them Calm
Limit running or jumping until your vet gives the all-clear, especially if your dog had surgery or any internal injuries.
Return Checkups
If your dog had surgery or showed signs of toxicity, your vet may schedule a follow-up exam to ensure full recovery.
Preventative Measures to Protect Your Dog
Safe Storage Solutions for Jewelry
To keep your jewelry and your dog safe, it’s crucial to store your accessories out of reach. Don’t leave them on counters or nightstands.
Supervise Your Dog
Especially during teething, or if you’re wearing accessories around them, be cautious. Dogs may lunge at earrings or bracelets while playing.
Train ‘Leave It’ or ‘Drop It’ Commands
Teach your dog the “leave it” command to discourage them from picking up anything they shouldn’t. Use positive reinforcement and reward them for successfully following commands.
Mental Stimulation
Bored dogs are mischief-makers. Puzzle toys, regular walks, and interactive play can help prevent destructive behavior.
Dog-Safe Toys and Chewables
Give your dog approved chew toys that satisfy their chewing urge safely. Stuffed toys with squeakers
Conclusion
A dog swallowing jewelry or accessories may seem harmless at first, but it can lead to serious medical emergencies. From internal blockages and metal poisoning to sharp injuries, the risks are real, but with quick action, most dogs recover well.
The key is prevention, immediate veterinary advice, and safe recovery. If your dog is acting differently or you suspect they swallowed something, don’t take chances. Fast intervention could save their life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if my dog eats a gold ring or earring?
Pure gold is not toxic, but the item can still cause a blockage or require surgical removal. If the item has sharp edges or contains other metals or stones, risks are higher.
My dog ate a plastic hair clip. Is that dangerous?
Yes. While plastic isn’t toxic, it can cause choking or obstruction, especially in small breeds. Monitor for vomiting, lethargy, or trouble pooping.
Can costume jewelry poison my dog?
Many costume pieces contain harmful metals like zinc or lead. Even small amounts can lead to toxicity over time or if ingested at once.
Will my dog pass the item on their own?
It depends on the size, shape, and material. Your vet may recommend a watch-and-wait approach for small, smooth items—but only with close monitoring.
Should I make my dog vomit at home?
No. This can cause choking or damage, especially if the item is sharp or irregular. Always consult your vet first.