Why Is My Dog Limping? Causes, Treatment, and When to Seek Veterinary Care

Limping in dogs is a symptom of many different conditions, ranging from mild injuries to serious health issues like joint disease or even cancer. Because dogs are often stoic about pain, limping is an important sign that something isn’t right. Understanding what causes limping, how to help your dog recover, and when to seek veterinary care can make a significant difference in their long-term health and mobility.

At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center in Milpitas, California, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating limping in dogs, ensuring that every pet gets the care they need to stay active and pain-free.

Common Causes of Limping in Dogs

1. Injuries and Trauma

Many cases of limping result from sprains, strains, fractures, or ligament tears caused by accidents, rough play, or falls. Torn cruciate ligaments are one of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs and can severely impact mobility.

Read more about canine cruciate ligament injuries.

2. Joint Diseases

Chronic joint conditions like arthritis and hip dysplasia are leading causes of limping, especially in senior dogs and certain breeds. These conditions gradually worsen over time, making early intervention crucial.

3. Foot and Paw Injuries

Limping isn’t always caused by joint or muscle problems—sometimes, the issue is in the foot itself.

  • Broken or torn toenails – A painful but common injury that can lead to limping.
  • Cracked or burned paw pads – Hot pavement, rough terrain, or harsh chemicals can damage paw pads.
  • Foreign objects – Burrs, thorns, glass, or even stuck gum can cause discomfort.

 

Regularly inspecting and cleaning your dog’s paws can help prevent these injuries. If you notice swelling, bleeding, or persistent licking, a veterinary visit is recommended.

4. Cancer and Bone Tumors

In some cases, limping may be due to osteosarcoma, an aggressive form of bone cancer. Large and giant breed dogs are more prone to this condition, and early diagnosis is crucial for treatment options. If your dog’s limping is persistent and doesn’t seem to be linked to an injury, a veterinary evaluation is essential.

5. Neurological Disorders

Conditions affecting the spinal cord, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), can cause weakness, dragging of the limbs, or an unsteady gait that resembles limping. Breeds like Dachshunds, Corgis, and French Bulldogs are at a higher risk.

Diagnosis: How Veterinarians Determine the Cause of Limping

At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center, we use advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the cause of your dog’s limping.

Diagnostic Tools Include:

  • Physical exams – Assessing gait, joint mobility, and pain responses.
  • X-rays and advanced imaging (MRI/CT scans) – To detect fractures, arthritis, or tumors.
  • Blood tests and joint fluid analysis – To identify infections or inflammatory conditions.

Treatment Options for Limping Dogs

Medical and Surgical Treatments

  • Pain management: Anti-inflammatory medications and joint supplements help with pain relief.
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation: Strengthening muscles and improving mobility.
  • Surgery: For severe ligament injuries, fractures, or joint conditions, surgical intervention may be the best option.

Explore our surgery services.

The Importance of Exercise Restriction

Proper rest and controlled movement are essential for recovery. Allowing a dog to move too much too soon can worsen an injury.

  • Leash walks only – No running, jumping, or rough play.
  • Crate rest – Ideal for dogs recovering from surgery or severe injuries.
  • Short, controlled bathroom breaks – To prevent excessive strain on healing tissues.

Following your veterinarian’s exercise restriction plan can significantly improve recovery times and prevent re-injury.

Learn more about mobility support.

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care

Certain signs indicate a medical emergency that requires urgent veterinary attention:

  • Sudden and severe limping
  • A visibly swollen, deformed, or broken limb
  • Signs of extreme pain (whimpering, refusing to move)
  • Open wounds, bleeding, or infected sores

If your dog is in distress, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Schedule an appointment today.

A veterinarian in blue scrubs bandages a cat's leg. The white and brown cat sits calmly on a table. A stethoscope hangs around the vet's neck.

Home Care for a Limping Dog

While waiting for your veterinary visit, you can help by:

  • Providing a soft resting area – A cushioned bed supports joints and relieves pressure.
  • Checking for visible injuries – Examine paws for cuts, foreign objects, or torn nails.
  • Applying a cold compress – Helps reduce swelling in minor sprains.
  • Preventing excessive movement – Limit stairs, running, or jumping.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Limping

1. Can I give my dog human pain medication?

No. Many human pain medications (like ibuprofen) are toxic to dogs. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication.

2. How long should I wait before seeing a vet?

If limping lasts more than 24 hours or worsens, schedule an appointment. If your dog is in severe pain, seek emergency care immediately.

3. Can limping go away on its own?

Some mild limping resolves with rest, but underlying conditions like arthritis or ligament tears require medical treatment.

More on why dogs limp.

Trust Advanced Veterinary Medical Center for Expert Care

At Advanced Veterinary Medical Center, we offer comprehensive orthopedic care to help your dog move comfortably again. Whether your pet needs diagnostics, pain management, or surgical care, our team is here to help.

Schedule an appointment today!