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My dog has a lump on his front paw and is limping. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 9 years and 11 months old | 70 lbs

My dog has a pea sized ball-like hairless, skin colored lump on the top of his front paw. He has been limping on it for quite some time.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 9th, 2019

This lump looks like it could be a cyst or other skin growth or tumor, and I doubt it is related to the limping. The limping more likely would be related to arthritis, previous trauma or other joint disease. I'd recommend seeing your veterinarian. They can examine the lump and may recommend taking a sample using a small needle to determine what it is. They can also examine Moose's leg and may recommend taking x-rays.

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on January 11th, 2019
It may be a cyst or small tumor. Without a physical exam and diagnostics (such as a fine needle aspirate), it is impossible to determine definitively. The aspirate can be done after the exam and samples can be sent out for pathology.
Given that Casper is limping, x-rays may also be indicated. Medication for pain can be administered or dispensed as well.
For now, restrict activity to just leash walks for elimination and avoid excessive running, jumping or rough play. Use an e-collar (cone) to prevent licking if necessary.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Mallori Kaminski, BVSc
Veterinarian
Published on January 29th, 2017
Lumps can be caused by a cyst, abscess or a tumor. Suspicious lumps should be checked out at your veterinarian. Your vet will be able to do a fine needle aspirate and take a small sample of cells using a needle and examine them under a microscope to figure out what's causing the lump. The limping could be related to the lump, depending on what it is, or it could be a separate issue and your vet will be able to examine Bella and determine if she needs further work up for that such as X-rays.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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