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My dog ate a whole corn cob. Is it an emergency? What do I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Female | spayed | 11 years and 8 months old

My dog ate a whole corn cob (hard part) what should I do?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 28th, 2019

If Gracie just ingested the corn cob I’d recommend heading to the closest emergency vet. They can either induce vomiting to hopefully retrieve the corn cob or use a scope for the same purpose. Corn cobs usually cause an obstruction when ingested.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 19th, 2020

    Hello. If the cobs were swallowed whole, they will most likely set up a blockage resulting in Copper becoming very sick. You need to have Copper seen at an emergency clinic as soon as possible. Best scenario is they will induce vomiting & hope he brings up all the corn cobs. If not, the cobs may be able to be removed under sedation & the use of endoscopy to retrieve the cobs. If the cobs pass into the intestines, they may get stuck & Copper may need major abdominal surgery. Good luck & thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 22nd, 2018

    I would take Eddie into the vet immediately. Corn cobs cause obstructions in the GI tract, and an obstruction is fatal without treatment. He needs x-rays to make sure there isn't any more of the corn cob in him, and if there is, it will likely need to be removed surgically. Please take him into a vet now. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 27th, 2021

    Take Fern into a vet immediately. Corn cobs cause intestinal obstructions, and the cob needs to be removed now to prevent that from happening. I strongly urge you to take her into an ER vet right away. Best of luck.

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