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Puppy paw swollen after jump. OTC pain relief or vet visit needed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 12 days old | 15 lbs

12wk old, male American sapphire terrier landed wrong on front left paw after jumping off 2.5ft porch. Paw pad is swollen, favoring paw and not bearing much weight, no signs of pain when touched, no apparent cuts, stings or splints. What can I give him over the counter for swelling and discomfort and how do i tell if he needs medical attention or if it's just a sprain?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on January 11th, 2019

You can't give him anything over the counter. If it just started you can let Tech rest for a few days with minimal walking and minimal physical exercise, if it does not improve within 3-4 days you will have to take him to the vet in order to get it checked and treated, he might need pain killers for a few days (prescription only). if the vet think it's something more serious such as a fracture, joint injury or foreign body, he might recommend to have an xray done as well.

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