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Dog limping but still active. Is it a pulled muscle or serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed

My dog started limping today. When she walks she is holding her left pack leg up. However she is jumping up and down off of furniture normally, she is still using that leg to scratch, and she will sit and lay down on it normally. I have felt up and down it and have applied pressure and it doesnt seem to bother her. Is it worth taking her to a emergency clinic or could it just be a pulled muscle?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 23rd, 2017

Hi thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Brinkley! A sprain or strain is definetly possible. Other common injuries in the hind leg are ligament tears (ACL) or a loose knee cap which is common in small breeds. I think if she is otherwise is fine you can wait to see your Vet tomorrow. Just don't give any pain medications. They can interfere with what your Vet may prescribe. Good luck!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Elva Ma DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 1st, 2018

    Hello, and thank you for your question! I'm sorry to hear that Angel isn't feeling well. Possible causes for the limp include a sprain/strain of the soft tissues in her leg; a dislocation of her leg joint; or a fracture. I would recommend resting her for the next 24 hours: no running, jumping, or rough housing. Just out on leash for quick 5 minute bathroom breaks at most. If this is a sprain, her limp should improve slightly and improve further over the next 7 days with continued strict rest. If, however, her limping does not improve or worsens, then you will need to take her to the vet. They may recommend x-rays to pinpoint the nature of the problem. At minimum, they can prescribe anti-inflammatory pain medications to help her heal and stay comfortable. I hope this helps, and that Angel feels better soon!

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    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 23rd, 2018

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. She may have just injured her soft tissue in the leg (either a sprain, strain or trauma to the muscle). Of course there is the possibility that she has a fractured bone but it is impossible for me to say. I would say that if after 24 hours she is still limping, I would recommend bringing her to the veterinarian to have her leg looked at and have x-rays taken of the affected leg if needed to help determine what the problem is. The veterinarian can also provide you with pain medications for her so that she is more comfortable. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

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