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My dog is limping and guarding his paw. Why won't he let me touch it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | 6 years and 6 months old | 45 lbs

My dog has been limping for a day now. He is raising,licking,biting,and guarding his left front paw. I have been trying to see what is wrong but he is not letting me. What should I do? Any ideas of what is wrong?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 30th, 2017

Poor Charlie! It could be he has injured his paw, could have a foreign body in it, or may have a broken bone in his paw causing these symptoms. It sounds like he is very painful, especially if he won't let you look at it. I would definitely take him into the vet tomorrow to have his paw examined. He may need to be sedated in order to allow the vet to take a good look at it, so I would not feed him past 12am tonight. The vet can determine what is causing these symptoms so he can be treated. Rest him tonight, taking him out to toilet on a lead only and bringing him right back in when he's done. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. The vet can prescribe safe pain medication as needed. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 7th, 2017

    Poor Nacho! It could be that he he injured his paw and or may have a foreign body in his paw causing these symptoms. I recommend resting Nacho 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. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

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