There are many reasons why giving dogs real bones is not in favor with most vets. Hard bones can cause teeth to chip and break, and sometimes bones can get stuck. The worst place is in the gastrointestinal system, but small marrow bones can often become trapped right in the jaw.
Several times a year we see a dog that manages to get a small marrow bone stuck behind the lower canine teeth, trapping the bone on the mandible or jaw. These dogs become panicked, and even with owner help, often require veterinary assistance for removal.
We sedated this young handsome lab and removed the bone by sectioning it in two. He made a full recovery within minutes, though I doubt he will have another real bone soon!
