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Puppy fell down stairs, limping, not putting weight on leg. Vet now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 3 months and 22 days old | 25 lbs

Our 4 month old puppy fell down that stairs and hit the hardwood floor pretty hard. She yelped out as she hit the floor and is now limping. Right back leg. We messed with her leg a bit and she didn't seem bothered by it. She ate dinner fine but doesn't want to put pressure on her leg. She's even trying to play and rough house but her leg is just up in the air as she doesn't want to put pressure on it. I know everyone says to wait 48 to see if she gets better but I wanted a second opinion.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 9th, 2017

Poor Athena! Given that she is such a young puppy and she isn't putting any pressure on her leg, I would only rest her tonight and evaluate her in the morning. If she's still not putting weight on it in the morning, I would have her seen by a vet. For an adult dog, I do recommended waiting 48 hours, but not necessarily with puppies. That's because they are still growing, and it's important to diagnose and treat any problems with their limbs so it doesn't adverse affect their growth. I hope this helps :-)

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 9th, 2019

    Limping means Toffie is in pain, so that is worrying. It's concerning he won't put weight on it at all. Rest him tonight. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to potty on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Please have him seen by a vet first thing in the morning if he's limping or still won't put weight on the leg.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 12th, 2017

    Poor little Minnie! It sounds like she hurt herself when she fell, as limping is a sign of pain in dogs. I recommend resting her 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, 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. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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