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My dog swallowed a ham bone and can't poop. Is it an emergency?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | 10 years and 3 months old | 55 lbs

My dog swallowed a ham bone a couple of days ago. About one inch circumference and has been struggling to eliminate her bowels ever since. I have been giving her pumpkin hoping this would help move things along, but she is still struggling. She weighs about 55# and is about 10 years old. Can you give me any advice on helping her? Thank you Ruth Dana

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 29th, 2019

Please have Rosie seen by a vet right away, as this is an emergency. It sounds like the bone has caused a blockage, which is extremely painful, and it could lead to perforation of the intestines, which can be deadly. Your vet will need to evaluate Rosie and may recommend surgery to help reduce the risk of perforation. Good luck, and I hope she feels better soon!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on January 6th, 2019
It's never recommended to make a dog vomit after eating a bone because it can get stuck in the esophagus on the way out and/or cause damage. If he's acting strange, I would take him into a vet immediately. The vet may be able to remove the bone with an endoscope. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 21st, 2019
You did the right thing taking the ham bone away from Gator. Bones cause broken teeth, and if the bone is cooked, it can easily splinter in the GI tract causing perforation and obstruction. I never recommend giving bones to dogs. I would monitor him for now, and if he starts excessively drooling or having trouble eating, have him seen by a vet. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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