Hi there! Sorry if this is a dumb question, but I just got my puppy, Max, last week, and he keeps swallowing a lot. Is that normal? I read conflicting things online and I’m worried. Could he be sick or eating too fast? Thanks for any advice!

Hey there! First, no question about Max is dumb, so you're doing great by asking. Puppies certainly like to keep us on our toes! Swallowing a lot could mean a few things, but let's break it down.

If Max is swallowing excessively, it could be because he's eating too fast, which isn’t uncommon. Puppies are enthusiastic eaters and sometimes they gobble down food too quickly. To help with this, try getting a slow feeder bowl or spread his food on a baking sheet so he has to work a bit harder to eat.

However, if you notice other symptoms, there might be more going on:

• Drooling a lot, pawing at the mouth, or gagging could indicate something's stuck in his throat.
• Persistent coughing or difficulty breathing can be more serious and need urgent attention.
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy could point to a stomach upset or even a more serious issue.

If Max is showing any signs of distress, struggling to breathe, or if you're worried he might have swallowed something dangerous (like chocolate, grapes, or other toxic substances), it’s time to call the vet immediately. For reference, chocolate or toxic items in small amounts might just cause stomach upset, but any amount can be risky, so it's always best to err on the side of caution.

Meanwhile, if he seems happy and active without any other symptoms, it’s okay to monitor him closely and try slowing down his meals. Nevertheless, if his swallowing seems excessive or gets worse, let’s not wait too long to seek professional advice.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.