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My puppy might have swallowed a needle. What signs should I watch for?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Lhasa Apso | Female | spayed | 8 months and 10 days old | 16 lbs

My Lhasa apso puppy is about 8 months old & weighs 16lbs I found her with a sewing needle push ball, it had one needle in it on the bottom and I believe that I found her with it not even a minute after she got the ball, she started to tear at the top decorations but I’m worried she might of ate a needle. She seems totally normal right now, no signs of pain or throwing up. Is there any behavior or other signs I should look for? Im not sure if she did it or not but I’d like to be sure she’s ok.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 2nd, 2018

It's difficult to know for sure, but it's definitely a concern for causing trauma in the stomach, or intestines. If she ate it within the last three hours, then it's possible that it can be retrieved from the stomach if you take her to the vet. They can take an x-ray and tell if the needle was eaten or not. This would be expected to be somewhat costly at an after hours clinic, but is the best option. The other option is waiting to see if there are any problems. Signs of a puncture is vomiting, not defecating, acting very painful/depressed and a decrease in appetite. If you notice these signs, then Elvie would need to go to the vet immediately for emergency surgery, because this can cause a severe infection.  I hope that helps and all is well with Elvie.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 20th, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding your puppies. It would be best for both puppies to see a veterinarian for x-rays to see if the needle is inside one of them. It can be very dangerous if this occurs as the needle can puncture internal organs. If this is not possible, then thoroughly search your home for the needle. Monitor the pups carefully for any signs of a problem such as vomiting, decreased appetite, lethargy or coughing. I hope this information helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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