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My dog is limping but seems fine. Why won't he use his back leg?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Norfolk Terrier | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 6 months old | 150 lbs

Hi my dog was out in the back garden today when he came back in to the house I noticed he was limping and he cannot put his right back leg on to the ground. I was thinking something could be stuck between his paw on his right back leg but he can be aggressive if I try to check I don’t know what to do at the moment as he doesn’t seem to be in pain as he isn’t whimpering he is limping around playing with his toys

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 24th, 2019

It sounds like poor Max injured himself playing outside. He is in pain because he's limping. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, 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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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 12th, 2019

    Poor Bear! He could have injured himself outside. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, 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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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 15th, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Fuego. If he is eating and drinking and otherwise healthy, then give him strict rest for 24-48 hours. Take him out on a leash to go potty. Do not allow him to run, jump, play or do stairs. If the lameness resolves, then it was likely a mild soft tissue injury. If he is acting ill or the lameness worsens, then he needs to see a veterinarian. He could have a more significant muscular injury or be experiencing joint or bone pain. In the meantime, do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!

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