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My puppy is limping but can walk. What should I do for his paw?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 9 days old | 30 lbs

I accidentally hurt my puppies left front paw when putting him back into his kennel last night. He’s been limping but is able to walk on it. Doesn’t seem to hurt when I touch it and I can’t find anything visibly wrong. Should he be taken in for x-rays? What can I do in the mean time to help him?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on August 15th, 2018

Hi and thanks for posting! I'm sorry to hear about the incident with the paw. From the picture alone you attached, the left limb appears to be a little swollen, but it is hard to say for sure without examining Link. You can try putting an heating pad between a towel or cloth on the affected area for 5-10 mins 2-3 times a day. If the limping continues, however, I would definitely recommend having him seen by a veterinarian and a few x-rays taken to help determine a diagnosis. It could be a soft tissue injury or something more concerning such as a fracture. I hope this helps and best of luck to you and Link!

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