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My dog ate my toothbrush. What are the risks and what should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 75 lbs

My dog ate my toothbrush

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 18th, 2018

Oh, that's not good that Sawyer ate your toothbrush. The concern about this is that it could cause an obstruction or it could cause perforation or damage to the GI tract. I don't recommend inducing vomiting at home, as the toothbrush could get caught in his esophagus on the way out. Given his size, he may pass this without problem, but I would keep an eye on him. If you see blood in his feces, he starts vomiting, he stops eating, he stops drinking, he starts vomiting water, he has diarrhea, and/or he becomes very lethargic, I would take him into a vet immediately. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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