Why Does My Dog Keep Swallowing? Causes & Solutions

Does your dog repeatedly swallow, even when they haven’t eaten or drunk anything? This can be a worrying sign for any pet owner. The most common reasons for a dog to keep swallowing are related to gastrointestinal issues, nausea, or even anxiety. This article will delve into the various causes behind this behavior and explore potential solutions to help your furry friend.

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Deciphering the Reasons Behind Your Dog’s Swallowing

It can be unsettling to observe your dog constantly swallowing, especially when they appear to have nothing in their mouth. This repetitive action, sometimes called “dysphagia” when it involves difficulty swallowing, or simply an excessive swallowing reflex, can stem from a range of underlying problems. It’s crucial to investigate these possibilities to ensure your dog’s well-being.

1. Gastrointestinal Distress and Nausea

One of the primary suspects for excessive swallowing in dogs is dog gastrointestinal issues. The digestive tract is a complex system, and disruptions can manifest in various ways, including this peculiar swallowing behavior.

Esophageal Problems

The esophagus is the tube that carries food and water from the mouth to the stomach. Any irritation or blockage here can trigger a swallowing reflex.

• Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus, often caused by acid reflux, vomiting, or ingesting irritants, can make swallowing uncomfortable and lead to repeated attempts to clear the throat.
• Megaesophagus: In this condition, the esophagus becomes enlarged and loses its ability to move food down to the stomach effectively. Food can then sit in the esophagus, causing irritation and prompting swallowing.
• Strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus, often due to scarring from past injury or surgery, can make it difficult for food or even saliva to pass, leading to a persistent swallowing sensation.

Stomach and Intestinal Issues

Problems further down the digestive tract can also trigger a swallowing response, often as a way to clear potential blockages or manage discomfort.

• Gastritis/Enteritis: Inflammation of the stomach or intestines can cause nausea and discomfort, leading to increased swallowing.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV): While bloat is a life-threatening emergency, dogs in the early stages or those experiencing milder forms of gastric distension might swallow excessively due to pressure and discomfort.
• Foreign Body Ingestion: If your dog has swallowed something they shouldn’t have, it can cause irritation or partial blockage, leading to repetitive swallowing. This is a common cause of dog foreign body ingestion.

Nausea as a Primary Driver

Dog nausea causes are diverse, and swallowing can be a direct symptom.

• Upset Stomach: From dietary indiscretions to more serious illnesses, an upset stomach often triggers nausea. Dogs may swallow frequently as a response to this feeling.
• Medications: Certain medications can cause nausea as a side effect.
• Kidney or Liver Disease: These conditions can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body, causing nausea and related behaviors.
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas is painful and can cause significant nausea.

2. Pica: The Urge to Eat Non-Food Items

Dog pica is a condition characterized by the persistent eating of non-food items. While the swallowing itself might be a separate issue, dogs with pica often swallow the items they consume, sometimes leading to further complications.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Sometimes, dogs with pica are trying to supplement their diet if they are lacking certain nutrients, though this is less common with modern balanced dog foods.
• Behavioral Issues: Boredom, anxiety, or stress can also lead to pica. The act of chewing and swallowing can be a self-soothing mechanism.
• Medical Causes: In some cases, pica can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions, including gastrointestinal issues, anemia, or even neurological problems.

If your dog exhibits dog eating non-food items, this is a significant warning sign that needs veterinary attention, as the swallowed items can cause blockages or internal damage.

3. Respiratory and Nasal Issues

While less common than gastrointestinal causes, problems affecting the respiratory system can also lead to an increased need to swallow.

• Reverse Sneezing: This sudden, rapid inhalation through the nose, often sounding like honking or gasping, can cause dogs to swallow afterwards to try and clear their airways. It’s often mistaken for choking.
• Nasal or Pharyngeal Irritation: Allergies, infections, or foreign material in the nasal passages or throat can cause a tickle or irritation, prompting swallowing.
• Laryngeal Paralysis: In this condition, the vocal cords in the larynx don’t move properly, making breathing difficult and sometimes leading to increased swallowing.

4. Anxiety and Behavioral Triggers

For some dogs, swallowing can be a learned behavior or a manifestation of anxiety and stress.

• Compulsive Swallowing: This can be a form of dog compulsive swallowing, similar to other repetitive behaviors like tail-chasing or excessive grooming. It might be an outlet for pent-up energy or anxiety.
• Seeking Attention: If your dog has learned that swallowing gets your attention, they may repeat the behavior to elicit a reaction.
• Learned Behavior: Sometimes, dogs pick up behaviors from other dogs, especially in multi-dog households.

5. Swallowing Air (Aerophagia)

Dog swallowing air is a distinct behavior where dogs ingest excessive amounts of air, often during rapid eating or drinking, or due to excitement. This can lead to bloating and discomfort, which in turn might trigger further swallowing in an attempt to relieve the pressure.

• Fast Eaters: Dogs that gulp their food down quickly are prone to swallowing air.
• Excitement/Anxiety: Highly excitable or anxious dogs may swallow air when they are overstimulated.
• Breathing Difficulties: Dogs with certain brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds may swallow more air due to their facial structure.

Identifying the Signs and When to Seek Veterinary Help

It’s important to recognize the subtle and not-so-subtle signs that accompany excessive swallowing. Prompt veterinary intervention is crucial, especially if other symptoms are present.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Beyond the act of swallowing itself, look out for these accompanying signs:

• Drooling: Excessive saliva production can be a sign of nausea or difficulty swallowing.
• Lethargy: A general lack of energy or interest in activities.
• Loss of Appetite: Refusing food or eating less than usual.
• Vomiting or Diarrhea: Indicating gastrointestinal distress.
• Weight Loss: Unexplained decrease in body weight.
• Coughing or Gagging: Especially after eating or drinking.
• Difficulty Eating or Drinking: Food or water coming back up.
• Bloating or Abdominal Distension: A swollen or hard belly.
• Restlessness or Pacing: Signs of discomfort or anxiety.
• Choking Signs: Such as pawing at the mouth, retching, or struggling to breathe. These are critical dog choking signs and require immediate emergency care.

When is it an Emergency?

Certain situations demand immediate veterinary attention. If you observe any of the following, do not delay:

• Severe difficulty breathing.
• Repeated retching with no vomiting, especially if the abdomen appears distended (potential GDV).
• Signs of severe pain or distress.
• Suspected ingestion of a toxic substance or a large foreign object.
• Inability to keep any food or water down for more than 24 hours.

Diagnostic Approaches by Veterinarians

When you bring your dog to the vet for swallowing issues, they will employ a systematic approach to diagnose the problem.

The Initial Veterinary Examination

Your veterinarian will start with a thorough physical examination. This will include:

• History Taking: They will ask detailed questions about your dog’s symptoms, diet, recent activities, any potential ingestion of foreign objects, and changes in behavior.
• Physical Palpation: Gently feeling your dog’s abdomen to check for pain, swelling, or masses.
• Oral Examination: Looking for any foreign objects, lesions, or signs of injury in the mouth and throat.
• Neurological Assessment: Checking for any signs of neurological dysfunction that might affect swallowing.

Diagnostic Tests to Pinpoint the Cause

Based on the initial findings, your vet may recommend further tests:

Blood Tests

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for infection, inflammation, anemia, and other blood cell abnormalities.
• Biochemistry Profile: To assess organ function (kidney, liver), electrolyte balance, and blood sugar levels, which can indicate systemic illness causing nausea.

Imaging Studies

• X-rays (Radiographs): Essential for detecting foreign bodies in the gastrointestinal tract, signs of intestinal obstruction, or changes in the chest cavity and esophagus.
• Ultrasound: Provides more detailed images of abdominal organs, helping to identify inflammation, masses, or fluid accumulation.
• Barium Esophagram/GI Series: Your dog swallows a contrast agent (barium), and X-rays are taken to visualize the movement of food through the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract. This is very useful for diagnosing dog swallowing problems related to motility or blockages.

Endoscopy

• Esophagoscopy/Gastroscopy: A flexible camera is inserted into the esophagus and stomach to directly visualize the lining, identify inflammation, ulcers, or foreign objects that might not be visible on X-rays.

Other Tests

• Allergy Testing: If respiratory or skin issues are suspected alongside swallowing problems.
• Toxin Screening: If poisoning is a possibility.

Solutions and Management Strategies

The treatment for excessive swallowing depends entirely on the underlying cause.

Medical Treatments

• Medications for Gastrointestinal Issues:
  • Antacids and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): To reduce stomach acid if reflux or esophagitis is present.
  • Prokinetics: To help improve gut motility if a motility disorder is suspected.
  • Anti-nausea medications: To alleviate discomfort from dog nausea causes.
  • Antibiotics/Antifungals: If an infection is diagnosed.
  • Dewormers: If parasitic infection is contributing.
• Pain Management: Medications to control pain associated with pancreatitis or other inflammatory conditions.
• Dietary Changes:
  • Softer Food: For dogs with esophageal issues, feeding softened or pureed food can make swallowing easier.
  • Smaller, More Frequent Meals: This can reduce the burden on the digestive system.
  • Hypoallergenic Diets: If food allergies are suspected to be contributing to GI upset.
• Fluid Therapy: Intravenous fluids may be necessary to combat dehydration, especially if the dog is vomiting or not drinking.

Surgical Interventions

In cases of severe foreign body obstruction, intestinal blockages, or certain esophageal conditions like strictures, surgery may be required to remove the object or correct the anatomical problem.

Behavioral Management and Environmental Modifications

For anxiety-driven or compulsive swallowing:

• Enrichment: Provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation to reduce boredom and anxiety. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive play are beneficial.
• Calming Aids: Consider pheromone diffusers, calming treats, or thunder shirts for anxious dogs.
• Professional Training: Work with a certified professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist to address underlying behavioral issues.
• Slow Feeders: For dogs who swallow air due to fast eating, using slow feeder bowls can significantly help.

Addressing Pica

If dog pica is the issue, the approach will be multi-faceted:

• Veterinary Diagnosis: Rule out any underlying medical causes.
• Environmental Management: Dog-proof your home and yard to remove tempting non-food items.
• Behavioral Modification: Redirect chewing on inappropriate items and reward appropriate behaviors.
• Dietary Review: Ensure your dog is on a balanced, high-quality diet. Consult your vet about potential supplements if deficiencies are suspected.

Specific Scenarios and Their Solutions

Let’s look at some common scenarios and how they are managed.

Scenario 1: The Dog Swallows After Drinking

• Possible Causes: Aerophagia (swallowing air while drinking quickly), irritation in the throat, or a neurological issue affecting the swallowing reflex.
• Solutions:
  • Slow Down Drinking: Use a wider, shallower bowl or limit access to water for short periods and offer it in smaller amounts.
  • Elevated Bowls: May help some dogs.
  • Veterinary Check: Rule out any oral or throat irritation, or more serious neurological causes.

Scenario 2: The Dog Swallows Frequently While Awake and Alert

• Possible Causes: Nausea, mild gastrointestinal discomfort, anxiety, or an obsessive-compulsive behavior.
• Solutions:
  • Observe for Other Signs: Note any drooling, lip licking, or abdominal discomfort.
  • Dietary Adjustment: Ensure the diet is easily digestible.
  • Stress Reduction: Identify and mitigate stressors in the environment.
  • Veterinary Consultation: Essential to rule out underlying medical issues.

Scenario 3: The Dog Swallows and Then Seems to Gag or Cough

• Possible Causes: This could indicate a blockage, esophagitis, or even dog reverse sneezing that’s being misinterpreted.
• Solutions:
  • Observe Closely: Note if the gagging happens during or after eating/drinking.
  • Check for Choking Signs: Be aware of dog choking signs and be prepared to assist if necessary.
  • Veterinary Exam: Crucial to diagnose potential obstructions or inflammatory conditions.

Scenario 4: The Dog Swallows Non-Food Items (Pica)

• Possible Causes: Nutritional deficiencies, boredom, anxiety, or medical conditions.
• Solutions:
  • Secure Environment: Remove access to items like socks, rocks, or plastic.
  • Increased Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Combat boredom.
  • Behavioral Therapy: Work with a professional.
  • Veterinary Workup: Rule out underlying diseases.

Prevention Tips

While not all swallowing issues can be prevented, some steps can reduce the risk:

• Supervision: Especially important for puppies and dogs prone to chewing and swallowing inappropriate items.
• Appropriate Diet: Feed a balanced, high-quality dog food.
• Regular Vet Check-ups: Early detection of health issues can prevent them from escalating.
• Prompt Treatment of Illnesses: Address any gastrointestinal upset or other health problems quickly.
• Environmental Management: Keep potentially harmful items out of reach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is it normal for my dog to swallow a lot?

No, it is not normal for a dog to swallow excessively without reason. While occasional swallowing is normal, frequent, repetitive swallowing can indicate an underlying health issue.

Q2: Can anxiety cause my dog to swallow repeatedly?

Yes, anxiety and stress can manifest as compulsive behaviors in dogs, including excessive swallowing. This is sometimes referred to as dog compulsive swallowing.

Q3: My dog swallowed a small toy. What should I do?

If you suspect your dog has swallowed a foreign object, especially a toy, contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not try to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a vet, as the object could cause damage on the way up. They may need to monitor your dog or perform imaging to ensure it passes safely.

Q4: What are the signs of a dog choking?

Dog choking signs include pawing at the mouth, gagging or retching repeatedly without producing anything, difficulty breathing, blue or pale gums, collapse, and panicked behavior. If you see these signs, immediate veterinary attention is critical.

Q5: Can eating too fast cause swallowing problems?

Yes, eating too fast, known as aerophagia or dog swallowing air, can lead to a dog ingesting excessive amounts of air. This can cause bloating and discomfort, potentially leading to further swallowing. Using a slow feeder bowl can help manage this.

Q6: My dog is having trouble swallowing food. What could be the cause?

Difficulty swallowing food can be due to several dog gastrointestinal issues, including esophageal inflammation (esophagitis), enlargement of the esophagus (megaesophagus), or a partial obstruction. This requires prompt veterinary diagnosis.

By paying close attention to your dog’s behavior and seeking professional veterinary advice when concerned, you can help ensure your canine companion stays happy and healthy.