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My dog limps after old injury. Is his good hip at risk of damage?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Basset Hound | Male | neutered | 9 months and 13 days old | 120 lbs

My dog got hit by a car on his left hip when he was about 6m and he seems to have recovered fine when he's excited he uses his back legs no problem, he has no problem running but when he walks he limps alot. Is it okay for him to limp. Will that cause damage to his good hip? What could I do to help?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 14th, 2017

If your dog is consistently limping when he walks I would be concerned about some permanent damage he sustained after being hit. He may have had something like a pelvic fracture that did not heal properly. This could cause issues in the long run because it will put increased stress and strain on his other hip. The likelihood of him developing arthritis in this injured hip is much more likely as well. I would recommend taking Duke to see your vet and have X-rays performed. To get very good X-rays he may need to be sedated. Your vet can determine from the X-rays if there is anything that can be done to help allieviate the problem. It would be wise to get Duke started on a joint supplement and to keep him at a good, healthy and trim weight since excess weight can cause more joint problems. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

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