Why does my dog limp or lift a paw when walking in cold snow?

Question

My lab/retriever mix, Ellie, has gone lame at times when walking in snow. She will start to favor her right hind leg and actually lift the paw off the snow. It isn't everytime. I checked her pads and webbing and all looks good. She doesn't stress when i touch the paw. What could be happening? ty

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

It could be that she is stepping on a sharp piece of ice in the snow that is hurting her paw, or she could have strained a ligament causing the lameness. Finally, if she is a middle age girl, it could be that she she is developing arthritis and the cold makes it worse. I would keep her walks shorter and out of the snow as much as possible for the next couple of days and see if any lameness occurs. If it does, then it's likely related to a joint problem, and I would have Ellie seen by a vet.

Why does my dog limp or lift a paw when walking in cold snow?

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