How does a dog act when they are poisoned? Here’s What to Expect

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Many dogs will get into anything they come across, from rat poison to dropped medication to antifreeze. And of course, that puts the dog’s health at risk. Teaching a “leave it” cue to your dog can be a lifesaver, but you can’t watch your pet every minute of the day. It’s important to know the common signs of poisoning and how to respond in case your dog encounters something dangerous.

The symptoms of poisoning vary depending on the substance and quantity your dog has breathed in or eaten. There is no single sign that you can use to diagnose the situation. However, there are some common symptoms to watch out for such as gastrointestinal or neurological issues. The following may be signs of dog poisoning:

  • Diarrhea or blood in the stool (either bright red blood or dark black tarry stools)
  • Vomiting or loss of appetite.
  • Seizures or tremors.
  • Behavioral changes (lethargy or unsteady when standing or walking; hyperactivity)
  • Bruising or bleeding (best found in areas of little or no hair, such as the gums, inside the ear flaps, and inside the groins; nose bleeds or bloody urine)
  • Finding of unusual material in a dog’s stool, such as peculiar green or corn-like substances which might be rodenticide ingestion.

    • Poisoning can cause a whole range of effects within your dog’s body. Some are immediate and others can have longer-term consequences like anemia or organ damage. Plus, some signs will be impossible to notice on your own like cardiac problems, such as an irregular heartbeat, or liver failure. That’s why it’s so important to take any noticeable symptoms seriously and consult your veterinarian immediately.

    How does a dog act when they are poisoned?

    Signs & Symptoms of Poisoning in Dogs

    The following symptoms may indicate that your dog has been poisoned:

  • Agitation
  • Tremors
  • Convulsions
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Heart problems
  • Diarrhoea
  • Kidney failure
  • Excessive bruising or bleeding
  • Nosebleeds
  • Unsteady on feet
  • Abnormal heart beat
  • Drooling
  • Oral irritation
  • Pale gums
  • Inability to urinate

    • What should I do if my dog has been poisoned?

    Stay calm and make sure the source of the poison is out of your dog’s reach. Then get your dog to the vet as soon as possible.

    Has My Dog Been Poisoned? (top poisoning symptoms in dogs)

    Today, our Raritan, Somerset County vets review the signs and symptoms of poisoning in dogs, how to know if your dog has been poisoned and what you should do if you believe if this has occurred.