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My dog is limping and yelps when I touch her paw. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 6 years and 6 months old | 21 lbs

my dog has a slight limp and it doesn't seem to be her leg thats bothering her, but if you touch her paw she goes crazy. what could be bothering her paw so much that its causing her to have a slight limp?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 1st, 2017

Poor Lucy! It is possible that she strained a ligament in her paw, broken a bone, or could have a foreign body in her paw. I would recommend resting Lucy for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to toilet on a lead only, 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. Please do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    She could have a small facture, foreign body in her paw, infection, or a soft tissue injury that may be causing her some pain. You could restrict her activity for a few days and see if it gets better. Otherwise, she should be examined by a vet to determine the cause. Your vet can take an x-ray, if needed, to help diagnose and then determine the best way to treat. She may need an anti-inflammatory and pain medications to help treat the problem. Hope she feels better soon!

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