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My dog's leg is swollen and painful after a dog bite. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 7 lbs

My poor Buddy was attacked by a large adult female pit bull, he seemed to be ok at first but its been several hours and his front right leg is swelling and he is in obvious pain

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on May 2nd, 2020

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Bite wounds are very dangerous, particularly, when a large dog with powerful jaws bites smaller dog. The main damage is under the skin, the extend of trauma cannot be appropriated by only looking at the punctures. What's is more bite wounds are painful and almost always get infected. Please, take Buddy to your local vets as soon as possible as he may be in serious trouble.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 8th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Maddie! From your pictures the skin looks red. I would worry that there is an infection associated with the dog bite 10 days ago. I would have Maddie seen today or tomorrow by your Vet. They can determine if an infection is present. They may want to open the abscess up and she likely will be prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. I hope this helps and I wish Maddie the very best!

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