My dog is limping and one back leg looks smaller. What's wrong?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 27 days old | 30 lbs
Dogs limping and back leg looks smaller than the other
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 23rd, 2017
Limping is a sign of pain and if there legs are uneven then one may be swollen if there was trauma or an injury or one may be small from atrophy from not getting used as much. At that age it may be a soft tissue injury from playing and jumping or it may be a genetic or growth problem such as panostitis or hip dysplasia. The best thing to do for today is rest him and do not let him run and play to make it worse. He does need a check by your vet to evaluate for these problems to see what medicines you can get to help him
5Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
-
Published on March 31st, 2019
Poor Zeus! I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Best of luck.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
-
Published on March 23rd, 2017
He could have some arthritis in is joints, issue with his knee cap, partial cruciate tear, etc. You could put him on a joint supplement, like Dasuquin, and see if that helps. Otherwise, have your vet take a look at him. Your vet can take x-rays to help diagnose and then prescribe medications to help treat. He may need an anti-inflammatory and pain medications.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
-
Published on January 6th, 2018
If he is limping and painful on his front paw I recommend a veterinarians. The reason for this is they can dispense medication to help with pain. In the mean time I would recommend rest (like what you are doing) and only leash walks to go to the bathroom. I hope Remington feels better soon and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Dog was playing catch in yard. Noticed when he came in and asked to sit he wouldn't. Limping some and holding back leg up. Leg seems a little warm and slight swollen. Laying down now and resting. No heavy panting or whining. Nose a little warm. Has
Hello, my dog is limping on his left rear leg. I checked for everything/anything that could possibly be wrong with him eg; hips, feet, pads, nails, webbing of toes, movement of all joints, knees, muscles, and tendons. Yet he hasn't shown signs of pa
My dog is limping on his back leg, he can still walk but I can tell that it hurts him. Please help.
You My pet dog isn't able to walk and run enthusiastically as it is to do earlier. I think he's having problem with his rear leg. Can could you tell me what it exactly could be or what can I do now?
My dog started limping in one leg for no reason and now she switched legs . She doesn't wimper or make noises like she's hurt . What could cause this
My 6mo large breed puppy is limping on her back leg (left) it started this morning out of no where. She doesn't seem to be in pain but wont put weight on it. Yet after a few minutes standing she is back to jumpling and walking.
Pulled muscle in hind leg.. Mild limping.. Unable to sit on hind legs..
My Male and female bullies where playing yesterday and the male was chasing the female and then she would chase him. Suddenly he stopped and whimpered for a second and then he sat down quickly. he then would walk a few steps and sit down again. This
Ptolemy started limping yesterday suddenly for no reason, I have thoroughly felt up his leg and foot and he is pain free yet will not put any weight on his front leg. He doesnt cry or do anything when he touches it down and yet still will hardly put
My husky yesterday randomly lifted his back leg in the house. First thought he was being a bad boy and peeing so I said hey no outside. He wasn’t peeing and he couldn’t put his foot back down like he’d limp with it in the air after a minute of walkin
Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.
