Can dogs eat raw bones?
Only after talking to your vet. Cooked bones splinter, but raw bones carry risks too: they can break teeth, cause choking or block the gut, and raw meat on them may carry bacteria such as Salmonella. Some vets allow them under supervision; others advise against bones.
Updated:
Why
Sources differ, so we use the stricter level. The FDA lists blockages, choking and mouth injuries after bones and advises asking your vet about safer chews. AKC notes raw bones may carry Salmonella and very hard bones can damage teeth. Bones can injure or block the gut, and blockages are very serious.
Signs to watch for
- Choking or gagging
- Cuts or bleeding in the mouth
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Bleeding from the bottom
What to do
If your dog swallowed a large piece of bone, or shows any of these signs, contact your vet right away. Note the kind and size of the bone.
How to give it
Ask your vet first. If they agree, choose a bone larger than your dog's muzzle so it can't be swallowed whole, avoid very hard bones, and always supervise chewing.
Questions and answers
Are raw bones safer than cooked ones?
Cooked bones splinter, which is why they should never be given. Raw bones still carry risks of broken teeth, blockages and bacteria, so ask your vet first.
What size bone is safer?
A bone should be larger than the length of the dog's muzzle so it can't be swallowed whole, and you should check on your dog while it chews.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- No Bones (or Bone Treats) About It: Reasons Not to Give Your Dog Bones — U.S. Food and Drug Administration (Consumer Update, first published 2015, data to Sep 2017)
- Can Dogs Eat Bones? Be Careful Before Giving Your Pup a Bone — American Kennel Club (Updated Mar 27, 2026)
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Dog has half of his intestines removed after swallowing deadly corn on the cob — PDSA (26 August 2016)
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic dog: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.