What happens when dogs eat bones? Is it safe or dangerous for them?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 4 years and 5 months old | 23 lbs
What happens when dogs eat bones.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on February 7th, 2017
It depends on the kind of bones, how many and if they were chewed or not. Splintered bones can gouge and tear at the intestinal tract as they move through, bigger bones swallowed whole can get stuck. If your dog has eaten bones and is lethargic, painful, defecating blood or not defecating at all, has diarrhea or vomiting or refuses food, these are all signs that there is a problem and she should be seen by a vet right away.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 28th, 2017
Hello, & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Never, ever, feed bones that can splinter easily such as chicken & some steak bones. Larger bones, such as knuckles & large limb bones are OK, but even these can cause issues. Dogs can fracture teeth, & swallow large enough chunks to cause major constipation or blockages. If you feed bones, try to be watchful & take it away if it begins to splinter/fracture, or when it becomes small enough that your dog may try to swallow the piece whole.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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