Why Is My Dog Limping? Common Causes and When to See a Vet

If your dog has started limping, it's natural to worry - especially if it came on suddenly. A limp is one of the most common reasons we see dogs at Village Vet, and the causes can range from something simple like a pebble stuck in a paw to conditions that need prompt attention. Here's a straightforward guide to help you work out what might be going on.

What does limping actually look like?

Limping - or lameness - just means your dog is favouring one or more legs when they move. It can be obvious or surprisingly subtle. Signs to watch for include:

• A slight head bob when walking (often a sign of front-leg pain)

• Reluctance to put full weight on a paw

• Stiffness after rest that eases once they've moved around a bit

• Swelling, heat or tenderness around a joint or paw

• Whimpering or pulling away when you touch a particular spot

  
  

Some dogs are stoic about pain, so even a small change in how your dog moves is worth paying attention to.

Common reasons dogs limp

• Something stuck in the paw - This is the first thing to check, and it's often the culprit. Grass seeds, thorns, small stones or splinters can work their way between the toes and cause significant discomfort. Check the paw pads and between the toes carefully. If you can see something obvious and your dog will let you, gentle removal may be all that's needed - but if the area is swollen, red or the wound looks deep, come and see us.
  

• A muscle strain or sprain - Dogs can overdo it just like we can. A big run, an awkward landing or rough play can strain a muscle or ligament. This kind of lameness often comes on suddenly after exercise and the dog is still bearing some weight on the leg. Rest for 24 to 48 hours is reasonable if the limp is mild - but if there's no improvement, or it gets worse, it's time to book an appointment.
  

• Arthritis and joint conditions - Arthritis is extremely common in dogs, particularly older ones, and it's one of the most frequent causes of lameness we see. It tends to cause stiffness that's worse first thing in the morning or after rest, and that loosens up a little once the dog gets moving. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia - inherited conditions affecting how joints form - can also cause chronic lameness, particularly in larger breeds. The good news is that arthritis is very manageable with the right treatment plan. We offer a range of options at Village Vet, including laser therapy, which is particularly effective for joint pain and inflammation.
  

• A cruciate ligament injury - The cruciate ligament stabilises the knee joint (the stifle) in dogs. Injuries to this ligament are common - particularly in active, medium to large-breed dogs - and typically cause sudden, significant lameness in a back leg. The dog will often toe-touch only or hold the leg up entirely, and the knee may be swollen.
  

Cruciate injuries generally need veterinary treatment, and in many cases, surgery is the best outcome. If your dog suddenly can't bear weight on a back leg, don't wait.

Broken or damaged nails

A broken nail - especially one that has split close to the base - is surprisingly painful. Dogs will often lick at the foot constantly and limp noticeably. If you can see a damaged nail, we can remove the broken piece cleanly and make your dog much more comfortable.

Neurological issues

Sometimes a limp isn't caused by a problem in the leg at all, but by an issue in the spine or nervous system. Dogs with spinal disc problems or nerve damage may drag a paw, stumble, or appear weak on one side. If you notice these signs - especially alongside any changes in bladder or bowel control - seek veterinary attention promptly.

When should you call us?

Book an appointment soon if your dog:

• Has been limping for more than 48 hours without improvement

• Is only toe-touching or not bearing weight at all

• Has visible swelling or heat around a joint

• Is a puppy or a senior dog

• Has any other symptoms alongside the limp - lethargy, reduced appetite, fever

  
  

Come in same-day or go to an emergency clinic if:

• The leg looks bent at an unusual angle

• There is an open wound or significant bleeding

• Your dog has had a trauma - a fall, a collision or a dog attack
  

What happens when you bring your dog in?

We'll do a thorough physical examination, feeling along the leg and gently moving the joints to pinpoint where the discomfort is coming from. Depending on what we find, we might recommend X-rays to look at bones and joints, or blood tests if we suspect an underlying cause. We'll talk you through everything as we go.

You don't need to have a diagnosis ready before you call - just tell us what you've observed (when it started, which leg, whether it's constant or comes and goes) and we'll take it from there.

Still not sure? Just call us.

We'd much rather help you work out what's going on than have you spending the weekend worrying. A quick call to the clinic is always a good first step, and we can help you decide whether your dog needs to be seen urgently or whether a little rest and monitoring is the right approach.

Book an appointment at Village Vet - call 03 9827 7500 or book online.