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My dog is limping, hiding, and growling. Should I take him to the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 9 years and 7 months old | 15 lbs

My dog is limping with his back left leg up.he is under the couch he eats and drinks but growls when I try to get him to come out

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on June 17th, 2018

Poor Harley! If he's holding the leg up completely, and hiding under the couch and growling at you, it sounds like he's in quite a bit of pain. Because of this, it would be best to take him to an emergency clinic today to be seen, if you can. He may have a broken bone in his leg, or a serious injury such as a torn cruciate ligament in his knee. Your veterinarian can do a complete orthopedic exam and may also take x-rays if needed to determine what's wrong. If you aren't able to go to an emergency clinic today, then I would definitely take him in to see your regular vet first thing tomorrow morning. In the meantime, let him rest and restrict his activity as much as possible to try and avoid making the injury worse.

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