My dog goes outside and plays everyday we have slot of land he came yesterday was fine put him in his cage bed was in washer now holding his leg up and it's swollen near joint on back leg any advice what could be wrong he can but won't put pressure he's a baby I have looked for snake bites this happened before to his leg his toenail got caught and he sprained his leg it's nothing bad I haven't noticed anything like snake bite etc.. he laid in his cage looked stiff when let out. Pet's info: Dog | Blue Heeler | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 6 months old | 45 lbs

He may have injured himself while out and it became apparent after coming inside. He may have also injured himself in the crate. Ideally, an exam with your veterinarian would be best. X-rays of the affected limb could be done if indicated to rule out fractures or ligament damage. Pain management can be used if necessary. In the meantime, restrict activity to just leash walks for elimination. Avoid or prevent any running, jumping or rough play until he sees the doctor and/or recovers.

Of your dog has started to suddenly limp on a hind leg it is likely that he damaged his knee or a cruciate ligament. But it could also be a sprain or an injury. Check the affected leg starting by inspecting the paw inbetween the toes and pads for a foreign body lodged in it or an injury. Then check every toe muscle and bone moving up the leg to the hip. THis should tell you where it hurts. He needs to rest and only leash walk to do his business. If you find a wound that appears infected or you pulled a thorn or similar out of the paw, you can bathe it in a warm epsom salt solution several times a day which should keep your dog comfortable until you can see a veterinarian. If you find other areas hurting and your dog is in pain you may want to see a vet tonight for an exam and pain medicine. If he does not appear too painful you can wait until Monday to see a vet.