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My dog's limping on his front paw. Could it be from over-exercise?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 3 years and 4 months old | 50 lbs

My dog has been limping and trying to stay off of his front right paw. It's slightly red around the padding, and when I examine it I cant find any sort of lesion or rupture. He is clearly bothered by it, but he just had an extremely long and active day just 2 days ago, so it may be sore or hurt from too much exercise after being inactive for quite some time. Symptoms didnt start until a few hours after we woke up today.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Catherine Stecyk

Veterinarian

Published on June 4th, 2019

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I recommend restricting Bob's exercise for at least the next 2 weeks to allow whatever injury is present to heal. This means no off-leash activity, no running or roughhousing with other pets. Ideally he would remain crated while at home during this time, and leash walked out to use the bathroom. If Bob continues to limp for the next few days despite the exercise restriction, I highly recommend having him seen by a veterinarian. Your vet can examine him and may recommend x-rays of the limb. I hope this is helpful!

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