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My dog is limping and won't put weight on his leg. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Beagle | Male | 5 months old

I left my dog alone in the house yesterday for two hours when I can back he was limping but I couldn’t see what he had done it has been nearly two days now and he hasn’t put his bag leg down he had the same thing few weeks ago but after massage he put it down he doesn’t cry when you touch it or anything so I don’t no what it could be

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on October 11th, 2018

Poor Hunter! It could be that he has strained a ligament or may have torn one. It's concerning that he's still not putting his leg down, and that tells me he is in a lot of pain. Please don't not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. The best thing to do is take him into a vet today if possible, or first thing in the morning. The vet can diagnose what is causing him pain, and can treat him for it. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 14th, 2018

    Poor Smokey! He is painful if he's limping, and it could be he has strained or torn a ligament. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 3rd, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Although you can’t find the source, Sookie is in pain if she isn’t putting weight on the limb. I recommend taking her to a vet for an exam to find the source. They may also need to take X-rays. Please do not give any over the counter medications as they may be toxic. Good luck and kisses to Sookie!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 17th, 2018

    Poor Loki! He sounds painful at the moment. I recommend resting him for the next 24 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Keep him indoors during this time. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. I hope this helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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