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My dog swallowed a splintered rib bone. Will he be okay if he's acting normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 3 years and 11 months old | 51 lbs

Hello, we gave my 55lb dog a rib bone chew treat, within seconds he bit it and it splintered. I ran to take it from him but he managed to swallow a piece before I could get it out of his mouth. He is acting normal (5 hours later) we fed him wet food only for dinner. Will he be ok to digest the bone? He swallowed with no issue.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 26th, 2020

Pesci is a big dog so he may be ok. Keep a close eye on him. If you see vomiting, diarrhea, blood in his poop, a loss of appetite, or lethargy, then it's causing problems and he will need to see a vet. I'd monitor him for the next three days to be safe. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Daniela Jessen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 28th, 2018

    Hi, For now all you can do is monitor for any abnormal GI signs such as diarrhea, vomiting and constipation as well as signs of discomfort or distress such as abdominal pain, loss of appetite and reduced activity. If any of the signs present please take the dog to be checked by a vet, however, if the dog is eating and pooping as normal, sit tight and keep monitoring. Good luck

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