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My dog has a swollen, limping leg. Does she need a vet or home care?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

Our dog escaped from her crate while we were out and we believe her back leg was trapped at some point. When we returned home she was limping on it, and now today (the next day) it is swollen quite a lot and she is still limping on it. she doesn’t act like she’s in a whole lot of pain, she will let me touch it and look at it. I can tell she’s not putting weight on it. I’m not sure what a vet will charge me and I want her to have care, but I would like to care at home if possible.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 3rd, 2019

Maddie's leg looks very swollen, and the fact that she is limping indicates that she is likely in a lot of pain. Please make an appointment to have Maddie seen by a veterinarian. Causes of the limping could be a muscular or nerve injury, a fractured bone, or a foreign body embedded in the leg. Pain medications meant for humans can be very dangerous (and even deadly) for dogs, so I do not recommend giving any to Maddie without consulting with your vet. You can call and ask what the cost of the exam and consultation will be prior to going in to your vet, and plan accordingly.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 6th, 2016

    It's more likely that your dog has injured her hind leg, and I would take her into the vet today. She sounds quite painful if she is limping and crying, and the fact that it's swollen can indication a ligament rupture or a broken bone. The vet can a lameness exam and x-rays to determine what is causing her symptoms, and how best to treat it. She likely needs pain meds. Do not give her any human pain meds, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Please take her into a vet now.

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 20th, 2018

    Given the persistency of the signs and the swelling I would recommend an immediate check up as the type of injury (soft tissues versus ligaments vs bones) can be confirmed and appropriate treatment given. Treatment will certainly speed up recovery time. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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