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Why is my dog suddenly limping on a back leg but seems fine?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 6 years and 6 months old | 9 lbs

Why doesn't our yorkie poo put any pressure on one of his back legs all of a sudden? We checked his whole leg amd paw and it seems normal.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on May 28th, 2018

There are a number of reasons that a dog will not put weight on a leg suddenly. They can range from a back problem, to a soft tissue injury like an injured knee, to a problem in the bones and joints, or even a problem in the paws or nails. The only way to determine the problem is to have your veterinarian perform an examination and possibly take x-rays. Some conditions are mild and will resolve with rest and pain medication, but some will require more extensive treatment. I would recommend keeping Delilah rested (no running or jumping) until you can have your veterinarian examine her to determine what is causing the problem and decide how to treat it. Good luck! I hope Delilah feels better soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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Related Answers from Veterinarians

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 19th, 2018

    Hello. It sounds like Daisy may have been nursing a partially torn ACL that has now completely ripped. Your first step should be to your veterinarian for an exam and radiographs. Then she will probably need surgery to repair the ligament. Keep her confined & leash walk only until you can have her seen. Your veterinarian will probably start her on a pain medication & possibly a glucosamine supplement. I hope she is walking well soon. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Maria DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 7th, 2018

    I recommend taking Sooty to a veterinarian to have her evaluated. If it is a hind leg a concern could always be a cruciate rupture (like an ACL in a football player). Your veterinarian may recommend strict rest and anti-inflammatoriea. If they are concerned about a cruciate injury they make recommend X-rays or a surgery consult. I would recommend resting Sooty until you can get her to a veterinarian. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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