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My puppy ate a thistle plant and is hacking. Should I be concerned?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Elkhound | Male | neutered | 4 months and 25 days old | 35 lbs

My puppy ate a thistle type plant and now is hacking every once in a while to clear his throat. He is still eating and playing like normal. Is he ok?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Tomasz Wnuk

Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on August 4th, 2020

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. The spikes of thistle have tendency to get stuck at the base of the tongue, tonsils and the throat. They may have to be removed under sedation if they are bothering your puppy.
Please, take Loki to your local vets for an appointment. Your vet may recommend sedation to assess the mouth and the throat for presence of the spikes.
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