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My dog's front leg hurts and she's limping after a run. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 4 years and 7 months old | 30 lbs

Hi I'm wondering if you could help. I took my dog out for a run and she seemed fine for a few hours. Now her front leg is kicking out in a funny motion when she tries to walk on it. She tries to lick it but there's nothing there. She is not really walking now just sat on her own. I have tried to have a feel around the muscle near the joint but she hides it, but she isn't yelping or anything when I go near. Any help would be appreciated.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 4th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Mitzie. It sounds like she is quite sore. She could have over done it on the walk and be experiencing muscle or joint soreness. However, at her age and size, arthritis isn't all that likely. If she is licking her paw, I suspect she stepped on something that hurt her. She could have gotten a splinter stuck, a small cut or an insect bite or sting. A lot of times the offending agent isn't visible, but the effects are causing the dog discomfort. If her symptoms persist, she will need to see her veterinarian. In the meantime, discourage her from licking. Good luck!

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