Fractures in puppies: rapid healing and open physes
4-month-old Belgian Malinois puppy with a transverse femoral shaft fracture after falling down the stairs. It is stable with no other injuries.
Which statement about treating fractures in growing animals is correct?
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A. A large, very rigid plate as in an adult is best, left in place for life
Young bone is soft and grows fast: a rigid plate bridging or near a physis can arrest growth and become engulfed by bone. In puppies implants are removed early.
B. They heal very quickly, so shorter-lasting fixation is enough; active physes must be respected and implants removed as soon as union occurs
Correct. Thanks to a thick, well-vascularised periosteum, clinical union can be achieved within a few weeks. Avoid rigid implants crossing open physes (or use thin smooth pins and remove them early).
C. Because it heals quickly, an extension splint for 4 weeks is enough
No splint immobilises the femur, and holding a puppy's stifle in extension is the classic cause of quadriceps contracture.
D. Surgery should wait until callus forms so the fracture is more stable
In puppies callus appears within days and in a poor position; after a few days reduction becomes very difficult. Operate as soon as the patient is stable.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Young bone: thick periosteum, rapid callus and soft cortex (screws hold less well). Operate early, protect the physis, use removable fixation and remove it as soon as union occurs. Monitor growth of both limbs at follow-up.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.