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My dog limps and cries in pain, but then acts normal. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 11 months old | 6.6 lbs

My dog appears healthy, no changes in appetite, she walks and runs and plays like the usual. However, she randomly cries as if in pain and appears to be limping her right hind leg. I tried to check for any wounds or lumps on her inner thigh but cant find any. Whenever it happens, she immediately recovers and continues to play as if nothing happened. This occurs 10 times a day I think. I feel she’s hurt but I just cant think of any possible reason.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 11th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Tictac. It sounds like that back leg is really bothering her. If she is otherwise acting normal, I would give her strict rest for 24-48 hours to see if that improves her lameness. This means no running, jumping or playing. Take her outside on a leash to go potty and bring her straight back inside. Allowing her body to rest will resolve most mild causes of lameness. If this does not help, then she will need to see her veterinarian. In the meantime, 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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Other Answers

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 13th, 2018

    If the lameness occurred suddenly while running or playing, then there is a chance that your dog has a cruciate ligament tear or a sprain or other injury. Lameness is a sign of pain or internal musculoskeletal damage. I suggest you take Missy to your veterinarian for an exam, possibly an x-ray and pain medicine. Your veterinarian will discuss the findings of the clinical exam and possible treatments.

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