My dog's front paw hurts and he's walking on three legs. What's wrong?

Question

Good morning, My dogs front paw is hurting him. He cannot walk on it currently. I am not sure what happened to be honest. So he's been walking on three legs and putting no pressure on one of them. How should I go about this? Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 4 months old | 18 lbs

C. Rathjens, DVM · Accepted Answer

Poor Alvin. Lameness in a front leg can be caused by many things, and order of concern varies with different ages of dog, but on my list is sprang/strain, arthritis, malformation in the shoulder, neck pain (usually a slipped disc), an issue with a toe/nail, damage to the paw pad, or even cancer or broken bones. If it's been going on for more than 24 hours, it's time for Alvin to go in to the vet for an exam and likely x-rays of his leg to determine what is going on and next steps for treatment. Wishing you and your pup the best of luck and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

My dog's front paw hurts and he's walking on three legs. What's wrong?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

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

How do I safely fix my dog or cat's painful hangnail at home?

Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?

Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?

Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?

Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?

Share