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My dog is limping but doesn't seem to be in pain. What's the cause?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Male | unneutered

My dog started limping this morning. he doesn't seem to be in pain I checked his pads and a tween his toes his toenails I squeezed his muscles to make sure that his legs were flexing correctly I was wondering if it might be a pinched nerve or something

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 3rd, 2019

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Buddy. If he is limping, this indicates that his leg is painful to him. If he is otherwise acting normally and there is no history of trauma, you can try resting him for 24 hours. Carry him as much as possible, do not allow him to run, jump or play and take him outside on a leash to go potty. Many mild causes of lameness will resolve with rest. However, if he is worse or not getting better, then he will need to see a veterinarian. X-rays of the limb may be warranted. In the meantime, 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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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 11th, 2019

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

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 1st, 2017

    Oh no, poor Oliver! Limping is a sign of pain, so he is in pain because he's limping. He could have strained or torn a ligament causing the limping. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

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    Answered By Maria DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 14th, 2018

    I would recommend a veterinarian. When they limp that is a sign of pain. Dogs do not always whimper and cry, sometimes they just limp. I would make sure there it is just a soft tissue injury. They may perform X-rays to determine this. After they can prescribe appropriate pain medication to help Mia Lou feel better. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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