My dog's back leg is off the ground and he's not running. Is he hurt?

Question

Hi, so I noticed just now that when my dog is standing his back left leg is coming off of the ground just slightly. I also noticed that since yesterday he doesn't want to go on walks as much. He seems to be running fine but when I went on a run he was slower than usual. when I play fetch now I notice that he's not running as usual. Can you tell me what it could be and if I need to take him to an emergency vet right away? What the symptoms could be and treatment. How serious is this? Thank You. Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 72 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Oh no, poor Rocky! It sounds like he is in pain if he's standing with his leg off the ground. It could be that he strained or torn a ligament in his knee (his cranial cruciate ligament), or he could have strained a muscle. I recommend resting Rocky for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, 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.

My dog's back leg is off the ground and he's not running. Is he hurt?

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