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My dog is limping after playing. Should I take him to the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Bully | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 7 months old

My dog Diesel is limping on his right back leg. He was playing and jumping and the next when he started walking he was limping

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5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 26th, 2020

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. So sorry that Diesel is limping. Unfortunately, this sounds like he may have injured his cruciate ligament in his knee. It is a very common injury in large breed dogs. I suggest you give him strict rest this week - meaning no running, jumping or playing - outside on a leash only to use the bathroom and then right back inside. If after a week he is not much improved then he needs to see your vet. If it just a simple sprain/strain after a week of rest he should almost be back to normal. If he is still limping then it is likely a more serious injury.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    If he is limping intermittently and he is able to put some weight on the leg, you should rest him for 2-3 days. Mild muscle or joint pain should go away just with rest. However, if Diesel is not able to put any weight on the leg, or he is showing signs of pain or discomfort you should gt him checked by your local vets today or tomorrow. Non weight bearing lameness can be related to problems within the knee joint or in the hip, which are often more serious orthopaedic injuries.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 9th, 2023

    Poor Kehlani! She may have strained something playing. I recommend resting her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to toilet on a leash, 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. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 31st, 2016

    Poor Kado! He could have strained or torn a ligament. I would rest 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 is done. Do NOT give him any human pain meds. Many are toxic to dogs and may be fatal if given. If he is still limping after 48 hours of rest, I would take him into the vet for an exam and dog safe pain meds.

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 2nd, 2019

    Poor guy. IF he isn't put weight on it after play, then the leg either has a muscle sprain or unfortunately a torn ligament. Let him rest for now. THat is the best thing he can do really. Keep weight off of it and then, if allowed, you can try massaging his leg once he comes out to let you take a look. If there is significant swelling on any part of the leg however, then a fracture is very likely. If it is just a muscle spray he should gradually improve with just rest over the next 1-2 weeks. However, if he does not improve at all by Monday when your regular vet is likely open, then it is best to have him examined to ensure he gets some medication to help with inflammation/pain, and a throrough examination of the leg to determine if this is just a sprain or something more serious. I hiope that your furry friend Prancer feels better soon! Best of luck and take care. : )

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