Call your vet today
Call your vet. Corn cobs are one of the most common causes of intestinal blockage in dogs: they do not break down and are the perfect size to get stuck. Do not make your dog vomit, and watch closely for vomiting or loss of appetite.
What to do right now
- Find out how much cob is missing and when it was eaten.
- Call your vet. If it was recent, they may want to see your dog straight away.
- Do not induce vomiting at home: the cob can get stuck in the esophagus.
- Watch for signs of blockage over the next several days.
Why corn cob can be dangerous for dogs
Dogs often swallow large chunks of cob whole. The cob is indigestible and absorbent, and can lodge in the stomach or small intestine, blocking food and cutting off blood supply to the gut wall.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting, especially after eating or drinking
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Painful or bloated belly
- Straining with little or no stool
- Diarrhea
What not to do
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Do not wait several days if your dog is vomiting or not eating.
What the vet will do
Your vet may take x-rays or an ultrasound. A cob still in the stomach can sometimes be removed with an endoscope; one in the intestine usually needs surgery.
Related guides
Dog ate corn cob: FAQ
Can a dog pass a corn cob?
Small pieces sometimes pass, but larger pieces often cause a blockage. Signs can appear anywhere from a few hours to several days later.
Is corn itself safe for dogs?
Yes, corn kernels off the cob are safe in small amounts. The cob is the danger.
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Sources
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Every pet is different: when in doubt, call your vet or an animal poison control line.