Your dog is a part of your family, and you don’t want anything to ever happen to her. Unfortunately, illness and injury can occur in dogs just like it can in humans, even when you are very careful with your furry friend. Broken bones are just one of the many problems that can afflict dogs, and they are sadly more common than you might think.

Dogs are most likely to suffer a broken bone due to an impact (such as being struck by a vehicle) or a fall. However, puppies, older dogs, and those with other health conditions may be more prone to breaking bones due to mundane causes as well. Very small dogs can even suffer a broken bone if they’re stepped or tripped on by a human.

In this article, you’ll learn the basics of what to do when your dog breaks a bone. Read through this information to prepare yourself so you’ll feel comfortable with how to respond if this ever occurs. Call or come in to VEG ER for Pets, open 24/7, if you suspect your dog has a broken bone.

Types of broken bones in dogs

A break, or fracture, can happen in many ways. Below are some of the more common ways your best buddy might break a bone. 

• Incomplete - Often seen in young dogs, this occurs when the bone bends or partially breaks, without a full separation across the entire circumference of the bone.
  

• Complete — Both sides of the bone are broken.

  • There are multiple types of complete breaks: 

    • Transverse fracture — The bone breaks straight across, forming a line that runs perpendicular to its length.

    • Oblique fracture — The break occurs at an angle, leaving two bone pieces with slanted, often pointed edges.

    • Comminuted fracture — The bone is shattered into three or more pieces, typically with irregular shapes.

• Open/Closed - Open exposes the bone to the environment outside your dog’s body. An open wound can run the secondary risk of infection. Closed occurs when the bone fractures but remains within the skin. 

  
  

• Salter-Harris — This type of fracture involves the bone’s growth plate and can interfere with normal development, potentially resulting in a shorter limb.

  
  

• Articular — This fracture extends into the joint surface and increases the risk of long-term complications, such as arthritis.

Commonly Broken Bones in Dogs

When a dog breaks a bone, certain areas are more commonly affected. Hindlimb fractures are the most frequent and often involve major weight-bearing bones.

The bones most commonly fractured in dogs include:

• The femur 

• The tibia and fibula 

• The radius and ulna 

• The humerus 

• The toes

• The paw/foot 

• The tail 

• The jaw 

• The teeth (made of enamel and dentin, but still prone to fractures)

• The pelvis 

• The hip 

• The ribs

If you suspect your dog has a broken bone, bring your pet to VEG for immediate vet care. VEG is open 24/7 and ready for any emergency.

Common causes of broken bones in dogs

A dog’s age, size, and underlying health conditions can all influence how susceptible they are to fractures.

Common causes of broken bones in dogs include:

• Trauma, such as being struck by a car

• Falls from a height

• Fights with other dogs

• Rough play that leads to accidental injury

• Underlying conditions that weaken bones and increase fracture risk

• Nutritional deficiencies that make bones more fragile

Signs and symptoms of broken bones in dogs

The first sign of a broken bone in dogs is often pain, which may be visible or audible. However, some dogs may not cry or yelp and instead show discomfort in more subtle ways, such as:

• Avoiding use of the affected limb

• Limping or difficulty walking

• Licking or focusing on a specific area

• Nipping or snapping when a painful area is touched

• Swelling of the joint or limb, or visible bruising

• Crepitus (a crunching or grinding sensation within the limb)

• Increased looseness or instability in the limb

• Abnormal positioning (the limb may appear shortened or angled)

• A bone protruding through the skin (open fracture)

• Signs of shock

What to do if your dog breaks a bone

If your dog breaks a bone, follow these steps to keep both you and your pet safe and on the path to recovery. By following these steps you can be sure you don’t crack under pressure:

• Stay calm

• Move your dog out of harm’s way

• Keep them as still and comfortable as possible (indoors if you can)

• Make sure your pet is warm

• Stabilize the bleeding with a clean cloth or towel.

• You may need to muzzle your dog if you apply pressure to stop the bleeding 

• Elevate the broken area if possible

• Avoid at-home treatment or medication, as this can delay proper care

• Call an emergency veterinarian immediately

• Get help transporting your dog safely to an emergency vet. 

How VEG emergency vets treat broken bones in dogs

At VEG ER for Pets emergency animal hospitals, we support both you and your dog every step of the way. You can call ahead to speak with a doctor while you’re on your way, so you know exactly what to do before you arrive. When you get here, a staff member aka VEGgie will meet you and help bring your pet inside safely. We also make sure pet parents stay comfortable, informed, and supported throughout the entire process.

Once your dog is evaluated, the emergency veterinarian will assess the extent of the injury and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Depending on the severity, an ER doctor may recommend stabilizing the fracture, surgical repair, or in severe cases, amputation. Your dog will need X-rays to determine the type and extent of the fracture. Sedation and pain control may be used to keep your dog comfortable during imaging and treatment.

Your dog may also be prescribed medications such as pain relief and anti-inflammatories.

Recovery after a dog breaks a bone can last months. Read on to learn more about what to do during this time and call VEG ER for Pets if you have medical questions and speak with a vet.

Recovery time for a broken dog bone

Once your dog’s fracture is stabilized, healing typically takes about four months in adult dogs and closer to two months in puppies, depending on the severity of the injury.

Following your veterinarian’s treatment plan is critical during this time. Deviating from instructions can lead to improper healing, infection (including sepsis), or permanent deformity.

As your dog recovers, you will likely have multiple follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress. Be sure to attend all visits and give medications exactly as prescribed. In some cases, your primary care veterinarian may also recommend physical therapy to help restore strength and mobility in the muscles and tissues surrounding the injury.

During recovery, running, jumping, and rough play should be avoided. However, controlled, gentle movement, such as short walks, may be recommended based on your primary care veterinarian’s guidance.

Your veterinarian may also suggest supportive care such as cold packs or gentle massage, but only follow these instructions if they are specifically recommended. Every fracture is different, and unnecessary handling can interfere with healing. Your vet may also instruct you to keep an eye out for symptoms of arthritis in the joints after it heals.

If your dog is wearing a cast, they will likely need an e-collar (cone) to prevent licking or chewing. While this can be frustrating for your dog, it is essential to protect the cast and prevent complications.

As your dog begins to feel better, they may become more restless or resistant to restrictions. Providing extra comfort, attention, and reassurance can help them stay calm and supported throughout the healing process.

VEG ER for Pets can treat your dog's broken bone

When your dog breaks a bone, it can be overwhelming. But with this information and VEG ER for Pets, you’ll be prepared to help your dog through the healing process.

Frequently asked questions about broken bones in dogs

How can I tell if my dog has a broken bone?

• Limping or refusing to use a limb

• Swelling, bruising, or visible pain

• Abnormal limb position or instability

• Licking the area or snapping when touched

How to tell the difference between a broken bone and a sprain in dogs?

• Broken bone: severe pain, no weight-bearing, possible deformity

• Broken bone: bone protrudes from the skin (Open break)

• X-rays from a vet are needed to confirm

Can a dog’s broken bone heal on its own?

• It’s possible for it to heal on its own but not recommended. Below are reasons why you should not let a bone heal on its own. See an emergency vet if you suspect a bone break. 

  • Leaving a broken bone untreated can cause ongoing pain and significant discomfort

  • Increases the risk of infection, including serious whole-body infection (sepsis)

  • Healing will be delayed

  • The bone may heal incorrectly (malunion) 

  • The fracture may fail to heal altogether (nonunion)

  • Can result in limb deformities or uneven growth

  • Raises the risk of long-term complications like arthritis and joint disease

Can I give my dog painkillers for a broken bone?

• Never give a dog human medications, unless specifically instructed by a qualified vet

• Some are toxic to dogs

• At-home medications can delay proper treatment and relief at the vet

What does a dog’s broken tail look like?

• Tail may appear bent, limp, or at an unusual angle

• Pain or sensitivity when touched

• Reduced or absent wagging

Can dogs walk with a broken leg?

• Some dogs may still try to walk

• Often limping or avoiding weight-bearing

• Movement is painful and requires immediate vet care

VEG ER for Pets emergency vet hospitals are open 24/7 to care for your dog's broken bone

Call and speak directly with an emergency vet or come in for immediate vet attention.