My dog fell on his shoulder and is limping. Is it a sprain or worse?

Question

A few days ago Cooper jumped when I was putting him down and landed on his shoulder. Since then he's been limping and whines when I pick him up. He was only a foot off the ground when he jumped. Just a sprain or something else? Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 1 day old | 8 lbs

Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

I am very sorry to hear that Cooper is limping, I am sure it is worrying for you both. Unfortunately, there are many reasons why a dog may limp, ranging from injury, infection, osteoarthritis, disorders of the growing bones or joints, and even some cancers. From what you are describing it sounds like a sprain that hopefull will heal in the next few days. In order to determine the precise cause of Cooper's limping it would be best to take him in for an examination by a veterinarian. A veterinarian will also be able to make Cooper comfortable by providing pain relief medication. The vet may also perform an orthopaedic exam and an X-ray. If Coopet seems very uncomfortable or depressed, you suspect a broken bone, the limb is dangling at an unnatural angle, a limb is being dragged, severe swelling is occurring, the limb is hot, bone is piercing the skin, or nonstop bleeding is occurring, Cooper needs to see a veterinarian immediately. If none of the above are occurring, and due to the high frequency of trauma cases which heal in their own, in limping dogs, you can try conservative management at home for 24 hours to see if Cooper improves. Here is what you can do to help him at home; Keep Cooper as comfortable as possible, and strict rest with as little movement as can be managed When moving handle with care Do no give Coopet any medications without a veterinarian’s approval Apply a cold compress for first 24 hours Switch to a warm compress after 24 hours If pain or limping continues after 24 hours then take Cooper to see a veterinarian. I hope this was a helpful answer and more importantly that Cooper feels better soon. Warmest regards and best of luck to you both.

My dog fell on his shoulder and is limping. Is it a sprain or worse?

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