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My puppy has a neck lump and limps after playing. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 year old | 13 lbs

My 1 year old puppy was playing with our great dane early in the morning about a week ago. I was trying to do something in the house when i heard the puppy scream. I thought he had hurt his leg as he kept holding it up and all day wanting me to hold him..then he seemed to get better but didnt want to eat much and couldnt bark sounded more like a cry. But he would have bouts where he seemed normal..two days ago my husband found a big swelling or lump on the side of his neck

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 1st, 2023

Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Oh no. Poor guy. This type of injury where you have vocalization, limping, and swelling definitely needs to be looked at by your veterinarian. A thorough physical exam of the area and potentially radiographs of the bones are needed here to provide the care that Stormy needs after an injury to this degree. I would highly recommend taking him in to be seen as soon as you can. You are not going to be able to care for an injury like this at home. For tonight, its best to just keep Stormy quiet in an isolated room without any other pets to disturb him and apply a cold compress to the swollen area, if tolerated, for about 3-5 mins. Using a bag of peas will suffice. I do hope that you are able to get Stormy some medical attention soon. Best of luck and take care.

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