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My dog ate a pork bone. He's licking lips and not acting right. Vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 7 years and 6 months old | 11 lbs

My husband fed my small dog a pork bone. He's not able to lay for long periods of time, is licking his lips often, and just not acting like himself. He doesn't appear to be in pain when I palpate his stomach. How long should I watch him at home before seeking medical care for him?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 3rd, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Lip licking is a clear sign of nausea. I would be concerned about mostly a gastrointestinal obstruction or dietary indiscretion. You can watch closely for signs consistent with these conditions such as abdominal pain or discomfort, vomiting and/or inappetence and have him evaluated right away if noticed. There is a chance that what you are observing at home currently will be transient. Good luck and have a great day!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 18th, 2020

    Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If Storm is not vomiting, has good appetite and is passing stools, most likely the bones have not caused intestinal obstruction. Pawing at the mouth is often a sign of mouth discomfort or a foreign body in the mouth (a piece of bone ?). Please, try and check his mouth for any wounds or pieces of bone between the teeth and at the roof of the mouth. If you cannot see anything, you should offer Storm small amount of food and see if he will chew and swallow without difficulties. Pawing at the mouth does not sound like an emergency that has to be seen right away. However, odd behaviour could be a sign of pain, discomfort, allergic reaction, excessive itching that should be checked by your local vets.

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