Call your vet today
Call your vet. A sock is one of the most common causes of intestinal blockage in dogs. Small dogs, and dogs that swallowed more than one sock, are at higher risk. Do not induce vomiting at home without your vet's advice, and watch for vomiting or loss of appetite.
What to do right now
- Note when your dog ate the sock and the size of the sock compared with your dog.
- Call your vet promptly. If it was within the last couple of hours, a vet may be able to induce vomiting safely in the clinic.
- Watch your dog closely and check stools for the next few days.
Why sock can be dangerous for dogs
Fabric does not digest. A sock can stay in the stomach and cause intermittent vomiting, or move into the intestine and block it. Socks and other fabric can also bunch up the intestine like a string (a linear foreign body), which is very serious.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting or retching
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Painful or bloated belly
- Straining with little or no stool
- Diarrhea
What not to do
- Do not give hydrogen peroxide without your vet's instruction.
- Do not wait if your dog is vomiting repeatedly or not eating.
What the vet will do
Your vet may induce vomiting in the clinic if the sock was swallowed recently, or use x-rays and ultrasound to look for a blockage. Endoscopy or surgery may be needed.
Related guides
Dog ate sock: FAQ
Can a dog pass a sock on its own?
Sometimes, especially a small sock in a large dog, usually within 24-72 hours. But many socks get stuck, so involve your vet early.
Other "my dog ate…" guides
- Chicken BoneCall your vet
- GumEmergency
- Grapes or RaisinsEmergency
- Corn CobCall your vet
- BeeWatch closely
- Silica Gel PacketWatch closely
- Rat PoisonEmergency
- IbuprofenEmergency
- TylenolCall your vet
- Cat PoopWatch closely
- Raw ChickenWatch closely
- WeedCall your vet
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.