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My dog limps after playing, paw up, no pain. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 68 lbs

My dog was at the dog beach playing with another dog and moved to the side and started limping. She didn’t squeal and let’s me move, and touch her paws. She doesn’t seam to be in any clear pain. She walks with one of her paws up and when she goes up stairs uses both. It seams to be getting better because this was Memorial Day, and she lets her other one down more often, i just need an opinion. She’s a pit lab mix and 6 yrs old.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 12th, 2019

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Ivy. If she walks with her paw up (ie not using it), this indicates that she is still painful. It worries me that she is still displaying this behavior (even if it is improved) several weeks after the incident. I recommend that she shees her veterinarian. She may need some anti-inflammatory pain medication to eliminate residual inflammation from a muscle strain. She also may need x-rays to ensure that there is not a bone or joint problem. In the meantime, keep her as quiet as possible to allow her body to rest. 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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