Why is my dog holding his hind leg up after playing, but still runs?

There is a possibility that your dog tore a cruciate ligament in his knee. I would make him rest, ie only leash walk him to do his business outside, and otherwise not let him run or jump around. If the lameness is not gone tomorrow or significantly better, then I suggest you make an appointment with your vet for an exam. Your dog will need anti-inflammatory medication to reduce inflammation and pain.

Xrays are recommended to investigate any hip issues and changes in the knee associated with cruciate ligament injury (not to see the ligament itself). Restricted exercise for at least 6weeks is required, if he is lame after he is doing too much. Joint specific food such as hills j/d is very effective in reducing damage in joints and maintaining mobility and is highly recommended to help reduce arthritis changes in injured legs especially in young dogs and to maintain mobility in older dogs. Pain relief, physiotherapy and chiropractic care should also be considered

If it just started you can let him rest for a few days with minimal walking and minimal physical exercise, if it does not improve within 3-4 days you will have to take him to the vet in order to get it checked and treated, he might need pain killers for a few days. if the vet think it's something more serious such as a fracture, joint injury or foreign body, he might recommend to have an xray done as well.

We often see torn ACLs in large breed dogs with limping in the hind limbs. I would highly encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian soon. An orthopedic exam and possibly an x-ray may be recommended to help determine the diagnosis and best treatment plan. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

Try restricting Bruno's activity for 24 hours. Leash walk him for elimination and avoid any running, jumping or rough play. If the lameness persists, have him seen by your veterinarian for a complete physical and orthopedic exam. Bruno may have injured his hip or knee. Xrays will likely be indicated to diagnose or confirm joint disease or ligament damage.

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Intermittent, painful lameness in dogs of her breed is often related to slipping patella, hip problems (for the hind leg) and sometimes elbow dysplasia (for the front leg lameness). A visit at your local vets is recommended. Full clinical examination should allow making the diagnosis and starting treatment, if required.

Poor Gunner! I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Best of luck, I hope this helps.