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Why is my dog whimpering and having trouble walking on her back leg?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 3 years and 9 months old | 45 lbs

My dog seems to of hurt her back leg but I do not know how or where. She was very excited one moment, ran around a corner in the yard, then she seemed to have lost all her excitement. This was unusual for her. I took her for a walk and she seems fine, but when we got back home she was having difficulty walking back up the steps. Now she is whimpering randomly and I believe it is due to her leg. Unsure what it could be though.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on October 24th, 2019

It could be Iris has strained a ligament. I recommend resting her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to toilet on a leash, and bring her right back in when she's done. If she still appears painful after this time, then I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. She may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

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