Can dogs get hairballs? How to prevent hairballs in your dog

Updated 04/10/2024

Is your poor pup hacking up hair or leaving furry surprises in the yard? If so, you might be wondering, like cats, can dogs get hairballs? In this article, we’ll dive into the hairy truth, answering “do dogs get hairballs” and how to prevent hairballs in your dog.

Can dogs get hairballs?

Curious about “do dogs cough up hairballs?” The answer is yes, they do. While it’s not as common as cats, dogs experience hairballs due to a range of factors which we’ll cover below.

Understanding hairballs in dogs

Now we’ve established the answer to “can dogs have hairballs?”, let’s understand a bit more about hairballs in our tail-wagging friends and how they can impact a dog's health.

What are hairballs in dogs?

Hairballs, or trichobezoars, are clumps of fur that accumulate in a dog’s digestive tract. They form when our canines ingest hair during grooming and the fur fails to pass through the digestive system properly. Instead, it gathers in the stomach or intestines causing your poor pup to vomit up the loose hair or uncomfortably pass it through their poo. 

Symptoms of hairballs in dogs

Been thinking “my dog sounds like he has a hairball”, but not 100% sure? It’s important to recognize the signs of hairballs. Some common dog hairball symptoms include:

• Gagging, retching, or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Visible discomfort

Common causes of hairballs in dogs

So what causes our furry pals to have a build-up of hair leading to frequent hairballs? Dogs develop hairballs due to loose hair or excessive licking which makes them ingest more hair than their body is prepared for. Here are a few reasons why your dog may be swallowing an excessive amount of hair:

Self-grooming habits

Dogs that groom excessively are more likely to swallow large amounts of fur, leading to hairball formation. This is particularly common in breeds with long or thick coats.

Skin irritation and allergies

If your dog’s got itchy skin from allergies or other skin issues, they might start licking and chewing their fur a lot more. This extra grooming can lead to those pesky hairballs.

Poor nutrition and diet

If your dog’s diet is missing some key nutrients, this can lead to an unhealthy skin and coat, resulting in increased hair loss and hairball formation.

Behavioral issues

If your dog is anxious or bored they might start grooming themselves a lot as a coping mechanism which leads to them swallowing more fur.

How to prevent hairballs in your dog

So your dog threw up a hairball. While there’s unfortunately no magic dog hairball cure, there are ways to reduce the chances your pup may ingest hair. Regular brushing, solving any diet or environmental issues, and making sure your dog isn’t experiencing any health problems are all good steps to take.

Let’s explore ways of preventing hairballs in more detail:

Regular grooming

Regular grooming can reduce the amount of hair your dog can ingest. So, how often should you brush your dog? It really depends on their coat type and breed. Long-haired breeds require daily brushing, while short-haired breeds can benefit from weekly sessions. We recommend getting a specific dog brush for shedding to really get rid of all those loose hairs. Make sure to check out our dog grooming for beginners guide for top tips. Getting your dog groomed professionally can also be an option.

When it comes to bath time, bathe your pup only as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks to preserve the natural oils that keep their coat nice and healthy. Over-bathing can lead to dry skin and increased shedding. When bathing your dog, opt for a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to maintain healthy skin and coat (human shampoos can cause irritation). Your vet will be able to advise you on a suitable option.

Fleas and ticks can also make your pooch lick their fur more often. Check for fleas and ticks regularly and always use anti-flea and tick products prescribed by your vet. 

Related article: How to remove a tick from a dog: Satisfying tips and tricks

Dietary adjustments and supplements

Can a dog get hairballs because of their diet? Indirectly, yes. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids and proteins is crucial for reducing shedding and promoting a healthy coat.

Incorporating fiber-rich foods like pumpkin and sweet potatoes into your dog’s diet can help with digestion and reduce hairball formation or at least help them to pass the hairball more easily.

Keeping your dog well-hydrated is also important for maintaining healthy skin and a luscious canine coat.

Consider adding supplements like fish oil to your dog’s diet or changing their dog food. Always consult with your vet when changing up your dog’s food and adding supplements. If your dog has frequent hairballs, your vet can also advise you on a dietary plan.

Related article: The incredible benefits of olive oil for dogs

Environmental and behavioral management

If your dog is chewing at their fur because they’re bored or anxious, provide mental stimulation through activities like puzzle toys and regular playtime, or provide calm spaces for your anxious doggo. If this issue persists, consider speaking with a dog behavioral therapist.

Related article: How to help a dog with dog anxiety

Recognizing and addressing underlying health issues

Watch out for signs of skin conditions or allergies, such as excessive itching, redness, excessive hair loss, or flaky skin. Consult your veterinarian if you notice anything usual that might be causing your dog’s hairballs and they can provide appropriate treatment options. 

Dog hairball treatment: managing hairballs in dogs

If your poor pup is frequently throwing up hairballs, you may be wondering how to get rid of hairballs in dogs. As mentioned above, there’s no specific hairball cure, but there are ways to manage hairballs and aid the passage of hairballs so it’s less uncomfortable for your pooch.

Home remedies for dog hairballs

A great home hairball remedy for dogs is adding small amounts of olive oil or fish oil to your dog’s diet which may help lubricate their digestive tract and ease the passage of hairballs. 

Hairball medicine for dogs

If you find your dog throwing up hairballs or experiencing dog hairball diarrhea regularly, it’s time to consult with a veterinarian. They may prescribe certain over-the-counter medications such as laxatives or special dog food to ease your dog's hairball cough.

When to seek veterinary help

As always, if you’re ever worried about your dog’s health, it’s important to seek the advice of a vet. While hairballs are usually nothing to worry about, there are some scenarios where we recommend getting professional help.

Severe symptoms to watch for

If your dog sounds like they’re choking on a hairball this can be a sign of a dog hairball blockage and it’s important to seek veterinary help as a matter of urgency. 

Other symptoms to look out for that warrant an urgent trip to the vet are: 

• Persistent vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Abdominal discomfort
• Sustained lack of energy

Veterinary interventions

If you’re wondering how to get rid of a hairball in a dog's throat – it’s important to leave it to the professionals. If your dog has a hairball blockage, it may require surgery from your vet. Likewise, if your dog is showing any other worrying symptoms, your vet can check any underlying causes and act accordingly ensuring the best possible outcome for your pup.

Meet our veterinary expert, Emma

This article has been checked by veterinarian Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS. Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a postgraduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.

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