05/20/2026
The Heimlich maneuver for dogs involves abdominal thrusts to dislodge objects blocking the airway, and the specific technique can vary depending on the dog's size. For standing large dogs, arms are placed around the belly with hands joined, pushing up and forward just behind the rib cage, while for smaller dogs, they can be placed on their back on a lap, with pressure applied beneath the rib cage, pushing firmly inwards and upwards.
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You should only perform the Heimlich maneuver if your dog is actively choking, cannot breathe, and is unresponsive or collapsing due to a blocked airway.
Here's how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog, depending on their size:
For Smaller Dogs
Positioning: Gently pick up your dog and place them on their back on your lap.
Thrusts: Place the heel of one hand just under their rib cage, and with the other hand, push firmly and swiftly five times, in an inward and upward motion towards the chest.
Alternative: Some methods suggest gently picking them up by their thighs and swinging them side-to-side, then applying forward pressure to the abdomen if the object isn't dislodged.
For Medium to Large Dogs
If your dog is standing:
Positioning: Stand behind your dog or lift them so their spine is against your chest. Wrap your arms around their abdomen, just under the ribs.
Thrusts: Make a fist with one hand and cup your other hand around your fist. Perform five rapid thrusts into the belly, just under the ribs, by thrusting your fist into the belly and up toward the ribs. Push up and forward, as you would on a human.
