My chihuahua is limping but doesn't seem to be in pain. What's wrong?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 4.3 lbs
Suddenly when my chihuahua tries to walk, he lifts his leg up and limps even though he doesn't seem to be in pain. It seems more like a nerve response to something. Things that happened previously: we did a long flight so he was in his carrier (but in cabin with me) for about 13 hours. I also had used Effitix on him (for flees, ticks, heart worms, etc; Fipronil and Permethrin). I also saw a spider in his carrier. Vet thinks it can be arthritis but he doesn't seem in pain. Can you please help me?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on March 24th, 2017
Some dogs are stoic and do not show obvious signs of pain even when they do hurt. If he is not putting weight on his foot it is probably because his leg hurts. There are a few exceptions: one being a luxating patella where the kneecap becomes displaced and rotates the leg so that it impossible to fully extend it. This is something your veterinarian probably would have found during an examination of the leg. I don't think the flea medication or spider would be related. If he is continuing to limp occasionally I'd recommend rechecking with your veterinarian: sometimes a tendon or ligament injury is more obvious on a sedated exam, and x-rays might be helpful as well.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on April 19th, 2018
Check the leg carefully from the toes to the shoulder to see if there is a broken nail, something in his paw, any heat or swelling in a joint or a specific area of pain. If everything feels normal he may just have a mild injury or bruising that will heal with rest. Keep him confined and go out only to potty until he’s using the leg better. If you find something wrong and he’s not improving in a few hours to a day then a veterinary exam is indicated. They will do an exam and an X-ray if needed. They can then give pain medication and tell you a treatment plan. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Piggy.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 4th, 2018
Poor Honey. If he is limping commonly and gets better with a little rest this could be possibly. I would make sure he is an appropriate weight. If he is overweight this will put him at increased risk for injury. I would also think about putting him on a daily joint supplement like dasuquin or flexadin. If the pain isn't improving or continuous, I would have your vet take a look at him to make sure nothing else is going on. Your vet will also be able to do x-rays and start him on pain meds if needed. I do not recommend to give human pain meds as most are toxic to dogs. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on April 10th, 2019
Poor Niblet! I recommend resting her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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