Why is my puppy limping on her back leg but not crying out?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 21 days old | 2.5 lbs
Hi, I have a 9 week old puppy and she seems to have injured her back left leg. She is limping and try's not to put pressure on it yet doesn't cry if she does. She doesn't seem bothered if I touch her leg, paw or hip but she still limps. I have also checked for thorns or splinters and there are none visible. Do you have any idea what could be wrong with her? What shall I do?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 22nd, 2017
Poor Lily. When a pet isn't showing a pain response but limping on their back leg, it could indicate that they have either torn a ligament in the joint or have a severe muscle sprain. Also if you don't notice any obvious swelling, then a fracture is likely not the cause. Rest her, no running, jumping playing and leash walk only for the next couple of weeks. You can also do cold compresses on the limb 1-2 times a day. if there is no improvement within 3-4 days, then it's best to get her seen by your veterinarian for a full exam and pet friendly pain medication. She may also need x-rays of the leg to determine the underlying injury (cause). Do not give her people pain meds however because these can be quite toxic to pets and cause major liver and/or kidney damage. It's better to get all pain and anti-inflammatory meds from your vet. Even though she isn't crying out, there is presumed inflammation at the very least, so she can benefit from medication at any time. I hope your puppy gets well soon. Best wishes.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 1st, 2020
This could be due to knee pain or hip pain. Restrict activity to just leash walks for elimination. If she doesn't improve or if she worsens in the next 48 hours, have her physically examined by your veterinarian. X-rays of the limb may be indicated after the exam. Do not medicate her without the advice of your veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on October 26th, 2019
I'm wondering if Miley could have torn her cranial cruciate ligament. This can be common in large breed dogs, and it s painful. Given that she has been limping for 2-3 days, plus had a previous episode of limping, it's now time to take her into the vet to get this checked out.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on October 18th, 2018
This is nearly always a sign of pain - Lucy may have injured her paw or another bone joint in her leg. Muscle, tendon and even bone injuries like fractures can make a dog reluctant to bear weight on a leg. Occasionally some infections can cause joint pain as well. I would recommend seeing your veterinarian- they can localize the pain and may recommend an x-ray or other testing. I do not recommend giving any over the counter medications for pain - this can limit the options that your vet has for safe effective prescription medications.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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