My dog is gulping, gagging, and eating strange items. What's wrong?

Question

70lb getman shepherd mix suddenly started gulping and swallowing almost as though gagging and then compulsively saught out fiberous items to swalloe (tissues, cotton balls, ribbon). After a few minutes it stopped but he seems uncomfortable (ears back, occasional sudden deep swallowing accompanied by licking/toungue flicking). What could possibly be going on and how can I help him? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 5 years and 2 months old | 70 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Poor Simmon! It could be that he has an upset stomach, but I would not allow him to ingest any tissues or cotton balls, etc as they can become obstructed in his GI tract and make the problem worse. He may have eaten something that has caused an upset stomach leading to this behavior, and I would withhold food for now. Allow him access to water, and monitor him tonight. If this behavior continues in the morning, then I would have him seen by a vet. Should the behavior stop, feed a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) and white rice in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. Then slowly add back in his normal diet.

My dog is gulping, gagging, and eating strange items. What's wrong?

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