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Why is my dog limping and not putting weight on her front paw?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 4 years and 5 months old | 33 lbs

My dog, Mopsy will not step on her front right paw. She does not seem to be in pain, but she does not want me to look at it. I have to carry her up and down the stairs. I felt her paw, and I can't figure out what is wrong with it. Her paw pads do seem scratchier than normal. I was thinking maybe she burnt her paw pads, but I have no idea on what. It seemed like it started hurting last night or early this morning. What do you think could have happened to her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 27th, 2019

Hello. Mopsy is definitely in pain, otherwise she would be using the paw. She may have somehow sprained her foot/leg. or she may have torn a nail close to the quick. It may be best to have Mopsy examined by your vet so that the origin of her pain & discomfort can be found. Usually these things are pretty simple, but do require some investigating to find the source of the pain. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 24th, 2018

    Please have her assessed by a vet urgently in order to diagnose the source of her pain and to provide the most appropriate treatment as soon as possible. There are many ways she could have injured the keg but non weight bearing lameness indicates significant pain

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    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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