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My dog swallowed a chicken bone. Is it dangerous or will it pass?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Doberman Pinscher | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 90 lbs

my dog ate a small chicken bone but didn't chew it just swallowed it whole. can it still harm him and will he be able to pass it? he's a male doberman 1 years old.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 20th, 2018

If this is a cooked chicken bone and just one bone usually it will be digested and not cause your dog any issues. It is best to observe him for the next couple days for signs of GI upset to be on the safe side. If Hercules has loss of appetite, vomiting, abdominal pain, straining to have a bowel movement or lethargy then a visit to his vet is recommended.

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2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 29th, 2020

    Most chicken bones can digest in the stomach but if it was a big or sharp piece, it could cause damage to your pet's gastrointestinal tract. I would monitor Ember closely for signs of vomiting, decreased, appetite, or abdominal pain and have her seen by a veterinarian right away if these occur.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on February 26th, 2017

    Oh dear! I would definitely be concerned that this could cause a problem. Cooked bones are very brittle and often hard for dogs to digest, so there is a chance that it may become stuck and cause an obstruction in his intestines. If this just happened, you could take Stubbs to your nearest emergency clinic - they may be able to retrieve it from his stomach with an endoscope to prevent it from causing any problems. If you opt not to take him to an emergency vet right now, you will need to monitor him closely for the next few days for any signs of an obstruction. Symptoms to watch for would include repeated episodes of vomiting, not eating, acting lethargic, or not having bowel movements. If you see any of these signs, you will need to take Stubbs to the vet immediately as he may need emergency surgery to remove the blockage.

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 14th, 2017

    IT could definitely be dangerous, potentiality it could cause intestinal blockage or intestinal perforation. If the chicken was cooked it is even more dangerous. you will need to monitor Chumley in the next few days, if he becomes lethargic or start vomiting you should take him to the vet ASAP in order to get treated.

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