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My puppy has a swollen paw and is limping. Should I take him to a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Weimaraner | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 25 days old | 40 lbs

My new Weimaraner puppy has a swollen area surrounding a single section of his paw, a digit bone in his right paw. He displays sensitivity when seated by holding that paw up and when he walks, it's with a slight limp. I think he got it caught once, between the door and the threshold. I hate seeing him hurt. What can be done, if anything, or will it heal on its own?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By John C. Gicking, DVM, DACVECC

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

Published on February 28th, 2018

Oh no! I am sorry Duke is hurt! Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. What you are describing could be due to a soft tissue or a bone problem in the paw. You should take him to a veterinarian for an examination. They may likely recommend doing x-rays of the area. If there is a serious injury, they may recommend placing a splint or cast on it. Less serious injuries may heal with just rest. They may also prescribe medications for pain and discomfort.

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    Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 15th, 2018

    Hi and thanks for posting! I'm sorry to hear about the incident with the paw. From the picture alone you attached, the left limb appears to be a little swollen, but it is hard to say for sure without examining Link. You can try putting an heating pad between a towel or cloth on the affected area for 5-10 mins 2-3 times a day. If the limping continues, however, I would definitely recommend having him seen by a veterinarian and a few x-rays taken to help determine a diagnosis. It could be a soft tissue injury or something more concerning such as a fracture. I hope this helps and best of luck to you and Link!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 14th, 2020

    It may be Lady just overdid it and didn't break anything. I recommend resting her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to toilet on a leash, and bring her right back in when she's done. If she still appears painful after this time, then I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. She may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 1st, 2017

    Poor Lola! She may have sprained it or she could have a fracture. You should restrict her activity until you can get her to a vet. Your vet can take an x-ray to make sure she doesn't have a fracture and then determine the best way to treat. If the x-ray is normal than your vet can prescribe an anti-inflammatory/pain medications to help relieve the discomfort. If she has a fracture than she may need a splint. Hope she feels better soon!

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