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Why does my dog's front paw shake when he sits on his tip-toes?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 19 days old

When my dog puts all his weight on one of his front legs he sits with the other one as if it is on its tip toe and it shakes, when he has both paws flat on the ground it doesn't shake, is it normal? I think it's just because he hasn't got his paw flat on the ground

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 10th, 2017

Thank you for using Pet Coach! This sounds like it may be positional and might not be anything to worry about. It does not sound normal for him to be holding his foot in such a way but every dog is different. You did not mention he was limping at all so I assume that he is not showing any signs of lameness? If he is in pain, he may be showing this by holding his paw up. This pain could be from a soft tissue injury or growth problem in that particular leg. If it continues and does not resolve, I would get your veterinarian to check the leg out during an examination to rule some possible diagnoses out and to determine if it is nothing to worry about. Please feel free to contact me again regarding Ziggy. I would be more than happy to help answer any other questions you may have.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
It is possible that Ziggy is feeling painful on that foot or even in his back based on the symptoms you describe. Sometimes pain can be "positional", meaning that it only hurts when he sits a certain way. I would continue to monitor this, and if it is still present in a couple days, Ziggy may need evaluation by a veterinarian for possible causes, including soft tissue sprain/strain, small fracture or other bony issue, or other issues up the leg or into the back.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on July 30th, 2017
It sounds like Ziggy has pain in that leg. The shaking can be a sign of discomfort. If he is otherwise normal please keep him quiet, no jumping or rough housing for a few days. Puppies are clumsy so he may have hurt it but usually they recover in a few days without treatment. If it is not improving in a few days to a week or gets worse take him for an exam with your veterinarian. They may do an X-ray and/or give some pain medication. Please don't give Ziggy human medication. I hope he is better soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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