My dog limps after running, no injury seen, still playing. What to do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Poodle | Male | neutered | 9 years and 10 months old | 11.3 lbs
My dog was running outside earlier on grass, then all of the sudden he gives a giant yelp and now he limps and has a hard time putting down his back paw. He’s all normal, eating/drinking, even trying to play. No visible signs of injury on the outside, not even swelling. What should I do/what is it?
5 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 10th, 2019
Hi! Thanks for entrusting us with Custard's care today! Sometimes even without external signs of injury, there may be an actual injury. Lameness can be a sign of a few things that range from a muscle sprain to even a fracture. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian so that this can be further assessed which will likely include radiographs. Treatment will be dependent on findings though at the very least pain control medications can be prescribed. Good luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on July 25th, 2017
This sounds like either a muscle sprain or a ligament tear in the knee. If it is a muscle sprain then it should improve over the next 4-5 days, but a ligament tear won't get better. Its best to take Rowdy in to your vet to have the leg examined and testing done if the lameness does not improve, or if Rowdy seems painful and in need of pet friendly medications. You can also elect to do x-rays now of the knee to rule in/out a ligament tear. In the meantime, keep Rowdy under exercise restriction, leash walk him only outside, and don't encourage rough play or jumping until his injuries have resolved. Best wishes and I hope everything works out for your pet Rowdy. Take care.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on April 26th, 2020
Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. So sorry that Diesel is limping. Unfortunately, this sounds like he may have injured his cruciate ligament in his knee. It is a very common injury in large breed dogs. I suggest you give him strict rest this week - meaning no running, jumping or playing - outside on a leash only to use the bathroom and then right back inside. If after a week he is not much improved then he needs to see your vet. If it just a simple sprain/strain after a week of rest he should almost be back to normal. If he is still limping then it is likely a more serious injury.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 16th, 2017
I'm sorry to hear your dog is limping! It's no fun to see them in pain :( I would recommend having your dog looked at by your regular veterinarian when you are able. Sudden onset lameness can be due to any number of things, from a strain/sprain to a fracture or dislocation, or ligament damage or even a bone tumor (definitely more common in older dogs). Your vet can do a thorough exam or your dog and try to determine which part of the leg is painful. They may recommend X-rays to check for some of the problems listed above, and they may prescribe some medications to help with the discomfort. Until you are able to have your dog seen I would recommend restricting his activity and only taking him outside on a short leash to use the bathroom.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on March 2nd, 2017
It could be hip dysplasia but it could also be a problem with his knee or just a soft tissue injury, like a sprain or bruise. You could rest him for a few days and monitor the limp. If it continues and/or becomes worse than your vet can do an orthopedic examination and x-rays to help diagnose and determine if treatment is needed. He may just need an anti-inflammatory to help relieve some pain.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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