Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog limps after play but puts weight on leg. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My large breed dog played hard with 2 other dogs last night. Later in the evening, after he napped i noticed a slight limp in his back left leg. It seemed like he didn't want to bend it, but after I called him over and rubbed it and looked for sores on his paws, he walked fine. We walked about 2 miles today and, again, after a nap on the hardwood floor, I noticed him doing it again. He doesn't mind me touching or palpatating that leg. He does put weight on it, just doesn't bend it when walking.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 12th, 2017

It could be that your dog strained a muscle, and that's why he has a limp. I would recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, 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. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 19th, 2018

    Poor Sam! If he's limping, that does mean he is in pain. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, 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, I hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 23rd, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Po. He will need to see a veterinarian as his leg sounds very sore. He will likely need x-rays. He may have suffered an injury to his cranial cruciate ligament. This is similar to an ACL tear in humans. Other common causes of rear limb lamness are arthritis in the hip, a muscle strain in the lower back or a cut or wound to the paw. His veterinarian will check for these problems as well. In the meantime, do not give any over-the-counter pain medication as these can be toxic to dogs. Keep him quiet to allow that leg to rest. I hope this information helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on May 15th, 2017

    If he is still lame after 2 days, a visit to your veterinarian is recommended. You are correct in thinking it may be a sprain or strain. A thorough orthopedic exam may diagnose soft tissue injury. X-rays should be done to diagnose fractures. In the meantime, restrict activity to just leash walks for elimination. Avoid or prevent excessive running, jumping or rough play.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored