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My dog is limping and tired after his first swim. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 9 days old | 3 lbs

We took my dog Mac swimming for the first time today and a little bit after we got back he started acting real tired which is abnormal for him, and he is limping. When we push on his right leg he yelps like it hurts and has just been laying down since earlier.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 15th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Mac. It sounds like he hurt himself somehow today. Keep him very quiet tonight to allow him to rest. If he is still limping tomorrow morning, he will need to see his veterinarian. He may require x-rays of the injured limb. Hopefully he just has a soft tissue injury such as a strain or sprain, but he could have wound somewhere or bone injury. Encourage him to eat and drink so that he does not become dehydrated. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medication as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!

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