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My dog ran, now struggles to get up. Should I see a vet immediately?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 7 years and 3 months old | 50 lbs

My dogs got out today and ran around, my dog Kita came back and then noticed she is having trouble getting up from where she is sitting, she can eventually start to walk but not for long periods. She's not whining or showing signs of distress and she just lays down, she did eat but I'm not sure if it is a pulled muscle or something worse. Should I wait a day before taking her to the vet or should I leave immediately?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 21st, 2018

Poor Kita! I'm sorry it appears that she may have hurt herself running around, and she does sound painful. It's good that she is still eating, so I would hold off on rushing her into the vet. Rest her tonight. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to toilet on a lead only, 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. Now if she stops eating, refuses to move, cannot move at all, starts whining and crying in pain, then I would be very concerned and take her into a vet immediately. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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