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Why is my dog limping and in pain after a recent vaccine shot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Havanese | Female | spayed | 11 lbs

My dog got a vaccine yesterday on her shoulder and the area seems to be hurting her now and she is limping.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2017

Usually the pain only lasts a few days. I find massaging the area helps them to feel better, also taking her for several short leash walks usually relaxed the muscle soreness that is probably causing the lameness. If the limp continues more than a few days please bring her in for an exam as that would be unusual from a vaccination and they will want to find the reason for the lameness. Smaller dogs such as Malia often show more discomfort after vaccinations. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Malia.

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6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 27th, 2018

    You can see some pain after receiving vaccines and a microchip, but that should clear up in a day or two. Please do not give Coco any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. You can try placing a cold compress on where she got the vaccines to see if that helps ease the pain. Do it for five minutes at a time for a couple of days. If the limping doesn't clear up in 48 hours, then I would take her back into the vet for a health check. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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    6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 30th, 2021

    I'm sorry to hear that Ori seems so painful after her vaccines! Some dogs, particularly tiny toy breeds, are a bit more sensitive to the injections than larger adult dogs. You can try using warm (not hot!) compresses over the injection sites for 10 minutes at a time. However, if Ori refuses to eat or drink, vomits, or has diarrhea, then you'll need to seek emergency care, as these can be signs of a vaccine reaction. Although uncommon, reactions can be serious and require prompt treatment. Based on what you've described, she just sounds a bit painful. If you're able to get in touch with your vet, you can ask them about prescribing a pain medication for Ori for the next day or two. Do not give any over the counter human medications, as none are safe for dogs! I hope that she's feeling better soon!

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