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My dog broke his front leg. Is surgery always required for a fracture?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 25 days old | 28 lbs

If my dog front arm is broken will he need surgery for sure??

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on August 29th, 2018

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! A broken bone does not necessarily mean surgery is required. It depends on the type of fracture present. Some fractures can be casted and splinted, others require surgery or surgical placement of pins and plates if severe enough. The first step if you suspect Ace has a fracture is to have him seen by a veterinarian ASAP. Your veterinarian will need to take x-rays of the limb to determine whether or not it is broken, the type of fracture present, and how severe the break is. Your veterinarian will then put together a treatment plan for Ace based on what was found. I hope this helps!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    Some front leg fractures will require surgical repair, others may heal with a splint - it depends on the type of fracture, so I can't say whether your dog will need surgery or not without being able to examine him and take some x-rays.

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