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My dog has a swollen lump on his elbow, now hard. What is it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Belgian Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 12 days old | 45 lbs

My dog's left front leg at the elbow is inflamed 3 days ago it was soft and smaller today it's larger and harder

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Kristin DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 13th, 2018

Thank you for your question. A swelling like this could be a couple of things. If Blue does not appear painful and is not limping, this may just be a hygroma, which is just a fluid filled swelling from laying on the hard ground. If this is the case, I would simply recommend soft bedding, and try to keep him from laying directly on the hard floor, and it should improve over 2-3 weeks. If it is painful to the touch, hot, or if Blue is limping, this could be an infection and he should be seen by your veterinarian as soon as you can get him in. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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