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My dog's back leg is limping for a week after running. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Poodle | Female | spayed | 14 years old | 15 lbs

My dog has been limping its back left leg for a week. It started after she was running outside in the backyard. What should I do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 19th, 2018

I’m sorry to hear about Fluffy! Unfortunately, there are many reasons a dog might be limping including: sprain/strain, fracture, ligament tear (the ACL specifically), cancer, fungal disease, something stuck in the paw, or others. In general, if it’s been a week, it’s time to see the vet. He or she may offer X-rays if necessary and will prescribe appropriate pain medication for Fluffy. In the mean time for pain: Ice the leg/painful area for 5 minutes twice daily. If it seems to be the paw or the pawnis swollen, try mixing 1 tbsp Epsom salts in 1 cup warm water and stirring until dissolved. Put Fluffy’s hurt leg in that solution for 5-10 minutes twice daily. Try to put an hour between the icing and the warm epsom salt soaks. I do NOT recommend any over the counter pain medications for a dog this age. (Your vet can prescribe a safe one.) Best of luck to you and Fluffy!

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    Answered By Christie Long, DVM

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    Thanks for finding us here at Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I just wanted to be sure you were aware that we provide housecalls to pets in the San Diego area. Visit us at Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.co/house-call-veterinarians/ or email us at housecalls@Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.co for more information.

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