Why Is My Dog Limping?

Seeing your dog limp is upsetting, because a limp always means something hurts. Some limps are minor and pass in a day. Others need a vet quickly. Here’s how to help your dog and know when to get help.

Go to a vet straight away if

• your dog won’t put any weight on the leg
• the leg looks swollen, twisted or is at a strange angle
• there’s bleeding, a deep cut or an open wound
• your dog cries out when touched, or the limp came after a fall, a fight or being hit by a car
• the limp hasn’t improved within 24 to 48 hours

Common causes

• Something in the paw: a thorn, grass seed, stone or cut pad.
• A torn or long nail.
• A sprain or strain from running, jumping or rough play.
• Joint pain: older and larger dogs often develop stiff, sore joints.
• Insect or tick bites near the paw or leg.

What you can do at home (for a mild limp)

1. Check the paw gently. Look between the toes and at the pads for anything stuck, or a cut.
2. Rest is key. Keep walks short and on-lead, and avoid stairs, jumping and ball games for a few days.
3. Give them a soft, supportive bed so sore joints can rest properly.
4. Never give human painkillers. Many common ones are toxic to dogs.

The heart of it

Dogs are brave and often hide pain, so a limp is their way of asking for help. When in doubt, let your vet take a look. With the right care and some quiet rest on a cosy bed, most dogs are back to bouncing around before long.