My Saint Bernard is limping and breathing heavily. What's wrong?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Saint Bernard | Female | spayed | 7 years and 4 months old | 150 lbs
My saint bernard is alternating limping with back and front left legs with heavy breathing which started yesterday afternoon with the back leg. There are no signs of injury (swelling, cut, or break) she is an inside dog and never out of our sight even when outside(she likes to escape). What could be the cause?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on February 13th, 2020
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lexi. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. She will be thoroughly examined and hopefully the source of her pain can be determined. She could have arthritis that has started in her hindlimbs and now affecting her front end. There are rare immune diseases that can affect the joints as well. If this is not the case, a neurological condition could be to blame. The veterinarian may recommend x-rays to help reach a diagnosis. In the meantime, keep her quiet. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 9th, 2020
It is illegal for me to recommend giving Chewy NSAIDs without seeing him in person, and it's also illegal for me to give the dose information. 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. You can ice the area for five minutes at a time three times a day.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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