Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My dog is suddenly limping badly and in pain. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Whippet | Female | spayed | 9 years and 8 months old

My dog has got a really bad limp all of a sudden, she is unable to even put her paw on the ground. She is crying and panting non stop and she can't even lie down without being in pain. I don't know what I can do to help her.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 29th, 2019

You are correct that limping can be an indication of pain, and Millie sound like she is in a lot of pain, so please make an appointment to have Millie seen by a veterinarian. Causes of the limping could be infection (such as an abscess) trauma, a muscular or nerve injury, a fractured bone, a tumour/mass, or a foreign body embedded in the leg. Some infectious diseases such as Lyme disease and joint diseases such as arthritis or joint infection can cause limping as well. Please make an appointment to have Millie seen by a vet as soon as possible to determine the cause of her signs and guide treatment. Pain medications meant for humans can be very dangerous (and even deadly) for dogs, so I do not recommend giving any to Millie without consulting with your vet.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored