My dog is limping, low energy, and not eating. What should I do?

Question

Hello, I have a 3-year-old GSD/husky mix, and I noticed that his energy level was much lower today and he seemed to walk with a limp. He didn't eat his food and so I had to feed him by hand and he wasn't drinking much water (which is very unlike him). I checked his paws and they were dry but weren't bleeding. He's in a shaded rocky area, so I thought the rocks were hurting his paws, but it seems to be more in his shoulders. What can I do/be on the lookout for to make sure he'll be alright? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 90 lbs

Chad Brown, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello and thank you very much for your question. sometimes when a dog is feeling painful, they will not eat as much as they usually do. So the lack of eating could be due to whatever is causing the limping. There are so many things that can cause lameness in the front legs ranging from something as simple as a sprain or a pulled muscle to all the way to a fracture or a ligament tear. My best advice is this: keep your dog in a well confined area for the next 48 hours. Give him his normal food and water and treats during this time period. Also, you will need to at least walk him 10 minutes twice a day to use the bathroom and that is it. Do not allow him to run, go up steps, etc. He needs to be completely rested for 48 hours. If the limping is still there within tw if the limping is still there after the 48 hours, he does need to be seen by a veterinarian to have a full physical examination and possible diagnostic testing like x-rays performed. In addition, I urge you not to use any over-the-counter pain medicine or supplements during this 48 hour waiting period. These are often ineffective and could mask the pain when the veterinarian does the examination. I hope I have provided you with the information you needed. Have a great day.

My dog is limping, low energy, and not eating. What should I do?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

Share