Emergencies can happen at any time, and small dogs are especially vulnerable. Breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Dachshunds, and French Bulldogs face unique risks such as hypoglycemia, choking, and toxic food ingestion. Being prepared with knowledge, supplies, and a plan can save your dog’s life. This guide covers first aid essentials, hypoglycemia response, choking/CPR steps, toxic foods, travel safety, and emergency kits. You can prepare and track emergency contacts using the Small Dog Owner Companion Tool.
Every small dog owner should keep a pet‑specific first aid kit at home and when traveling. Essentials include:
Prepare your kit alongside your enrichment and training supplies (see Enrichment Ideas).
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is common in toy breeds and puppies. Signs include lethargy, wobbliness, confusion, and seizures.
Small dogs can choke on toys, bones, or food. Quick action is critical:
Training games should always use safe toys (see Training Tips).
Many human foods are dangerous for small dogs:
Learn more about nutrition in our Feeding Planner article.
Traveling with small dogs requires extra precautions:
Outdoor adventures also tie into enrichment (see Enrichment Ideas).
The Small Dog Owner Companion Tool includes an emergency section where you can store vet contacts, poison control numbers, and quick guides for hypoglycemia, choking, and toxic foods. It also allows you to print an emergency sheet for easy access.
Items like gauze, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, honey packets, and vet contact information are essential.
Look for weakness, confusion, tremors, or seizures. Immediate action is required.
Yes — compress the chest gently and give rescue breaths every 6 seconds.
Grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts.
Carry a first aid kit, secure your dog in a carrier or harness, and keep vet contacts handy.