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My large puppy is limping, sick, and stomach looks sunken. Vet needed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 10 months and 2 days old

My 10 month old large breed puppy slipped jumping into the car 5 days ago. He seemed fine initially but around an hour later had developed a limp in his right hind leg. We rested him for a couple of days and the limp went but he didn't seem his normal bouncy self. Today (five days after developing the limp) we noticed he now has a slight limp in his left hind leg. He also seems very out of sorts and his stomach seems more sunken than normal. Any idea what's up? Should we visit the vet?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on April 28th, 2017

I would definitely take him to see your vet. He may have a hidden injury, the shifting lameness could indicate a condition affecting his bones called panosteitis, which is seen in growing puppies, usually large breeds. Since he's feeling poorly overall, I think the sooner he sees the vet, the better. Your vet will do an exam, probably labwork and x-rays, and based on these results, will be better able to inform you about your dog's condition and how best to treat it.

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