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My 8-year-old English bulldog is limping. Is it arthritis? OTC help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Bulldog | Female | unspayed | 8 years and 6 months old | 54 lbs

My 8 year old English bulldog is suddenly limping slightly. It's her rear left leg. Does not seem to be in any pain and didn't see her do anything that could of hurt it. Wondering if it could be arthritis, is there anything otc I could try to see if it helps? Thank you

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily Fukuzato, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 1st, 2017

Hi I am sorry to hear about Sophie. It may not seem that Sophie is in overt pain but in most situations when a dog is limping that is their way of showing they are in pain and uncomfortable she may be limping from arthritis and just some recent overuse of her leg, mild trauma (jumping off a couch or bed, slipping on floors, etc), or she could have a soft tissue injury like a ligament sprain/strain. Most of the human OTC anti inflammatory medications are not safe for dogs so I could not recommend that for her. At her age it would be best for her doctor to examine her so the reason for the limping can be identified and they can provide Sophie with the safest possible medication that will provide her pain relief.

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Yes this may be due to pre-existent arthritis/arthrosis which suddenly flared up or to an acute trauma. Certainly I would recommend complete rest for at least 48hours and possibly some anti-inflammatory medications (on prescription) if not improving in the next 24hours. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor girl. Arthritis is possible here, as well as an injury to the knee ligament or even a bone or joint abnormality. You can try giving her joint supplements (I recommend Dasuquin or Cosequin) to see if this makes a difference. You can visit a vet now to have her checked and at least get her on pet friendly anti-inflammatory medicaiton. However if you prefer to monitor her for the next week you can. If she is still limping after a week or so, or if she ever seems to be in a considerable amount of pain then it's best to take her in to your vet to have this leg radiographed to determine what injury is there so that we know what specific treatment she needs. Arthritis will show up on a radiograph, and so will injuries to the bone or knee ligament. Have Sophie take it easy for the next week or so, leash walk her only outside and you can try soaking her in a warm water Epsom salt bath daily. I hope she gets better soon and can regain full function of her leg. Best wishes and take care.

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