RESULTS: A total of 176 dogs had linear and 323 had non-linear foreign bodies. Dogs with a linear foreign body were more likely to have a history of vomiting, anorexia, lethargy and pain on abdominal palpation. They were also more likely to have the foreign body anchored in the stomach and continuing into the small intestine, experience intestinal necrosis, perforation and peritonitis, and require intestinal resection and anastamosis. The duration of hospitalisation was longer for dogs with linear foreign body (3 versus 2 days), and the cost of treatment was 10% higher. However, in both groups, 96% of dogs survived to hospital discharge.CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Dogs with a linear foreign body had more severe clinical signs and gastrointestinal pathology, and an increased duration of hospitalisation and cost of care. However, overall survival rates were not different in dogs with linear and non-linear foreign bodies.