My dog has rib pain after playing. Does he need a vet or just rest?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
My little dog might have a rib injury from my daughters big dog accidentally jumping on him when they were playing. He walks gingerly and crys when we touch his rib area. What would a vet do for this possible rib injury or is rest and no jumping going to heal it on it's own? Thank you
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on February 6th, 2020
Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. Poor boy. He should see a vet for it. You need an x-ray done to make sure the rib isn't broken. A broken rib could potentially puncture a lung. In addition, he needs pain medication. Unfortunately there are no human pain medications you can give him, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Even if the rib isn't broken and rest is all that is needed, he should still get pain medication to make him comfortable. I'd take him into a vet now. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on November 24th, 2017
Hi there and thank you for using Pet Coach to address your concern. Generally, if a rib is broken there is nothing that needs to be done to fix it. The rib will heal on its own as long as he is adequately rested for the next 4-6 weeks. I would, however, have a veterinarian examine him and take some chest x-rays to ensure that there is no other trauma that may need to be addressed. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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