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My dog swallowed a hair tie. What should I do if he hasn't passed it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | unneutered

My dog swallowed my hair tie and hasn't pooped it out yet. He's only 3 pounds I'm worried.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on September 8th, 2016

If Chewy is acting normal so far, I wouldn't be concerned just yet - the hair tie could possibly cause an obstruction, but there's a good chance that it will pass through without causing any problems. Signs of a possible obstruction would include repeated episodes of vomiting, not wanting to eat, and acting lethargic - if he develops any of these symptoms, I would have him seen by a vet right away. But as long as he is acting normal, eating and drinking with no vomiting, I wouldn't worry. In most cases, objects like this will pass through within 2-3 days of being swallowed; you can look for it in his stool so that you'll know once it's safely out :)

51Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on March 10th, 2020
At his size, it will likely pass through without a problem. Monitor for lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain or straining to defecate. These are symptoms that should be addressed by your veterinarian if they develop.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on June 11th, 2019
Hi there. Attempting to induce vomiting yourself at home is risky, so I would not recommend it in this case. It's very possible that whatever he swallowed may pass through his system without causing any problems; or, he may vomit it up on his own sometime in the next 24 hours or so.

I would recommend keeping a close eye on him for the next 2-3 days, to watch for any signs of an intestinal blockage. These would include repeated episodes of vomiting, acting lethargic, not wanting to eat, and not having regular bowel movements. If you see any of these symptoms, I would recommend taking him to the vet right away for an exam and x-rays. As long as he's acting normal, you shouldn't need to worry.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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