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My dog jumped off the bed and is limping. Is his leg sprained?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Eskimo Dog | Male | neutered | 8 months and 8 days old

My dog jumped off the bed and ran into the dresser. He's been limping on the leg and when he jumps down he cries. I can massage it with no crying help

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 9th, 2016

Aww poor guy. He may have a muscle sprain. You can apply a cold compress onto the areas that appear sore for 5-10 minute intervals twice a day for next few days. Also limit his activity, don't encourage active play, and leash walk him only outside. If this is just a muscle sprain then he should improve over the next 48-72 hrs. However keep in mind that he should be able to at least move the limb somewhat, there shouldn't be a significant amount of noticeable swelling, and it shouldn't appear to be dangling (possible fracture). These are all signs that you shouldn't wait and should take him in right away.

I do not recommend giving him any over the counter human pain medication, because these are not safe for pets due to high risk of acute liver and kidney damage.

If he is still limping after that time frame, or getting any worse, then it is best to have your vet take a look at him to make sure he doesn't have more serious internal injuries (ligament injury, hairline bone fracture, dislocation).

20Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Poor Bhalu! It sounds like he hurt his leg when he jumped off the bed. He could have strained a muscle, strained or torn a ligament, and (most unlikely) fractured a bone. I recommend taking him into your vet either today or first thing tomorrow morning to have it examined. Until then, rest him, don't allow him to jump on or off things as he may do more harm to it, and take him out to toilet on a lead. Just have him rest quietly until you can get him into your vet to have it examined.
13Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 28th, 2020
Hello. If your pet seems to be recovering, then I doubt any permanent damage was done. Rough play can lead to injuries in pets, just like in kids. You might want to just let him take it easy for a day or so, but there is probably no need to rush off to the vet. If, however, he continues to favor the back leg, then we may need to be concerned about a ligament injury in the knee. A small strain or tear will often heal with rest & anti-inflammatory medications, total tears require surgery ( which it does not sound like happened to your pet ). So, just let him take it easy for awhile. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on November 26th, 2016
Poor Lucky! He may have strained a ligament or pulled a muscle. You don't have to rush into a vet right away, you can try resting him at home first to see if that helps. Keep him as quiet as possible for the next 48-72 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when he's done. If after this time he is still limping, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. You can always take him in Monday if you are concerned, as he may benefit from pain medication. Do not give Lucky any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on April 9th, 2017
If the limp is mild than you could restrict his exercise to rest him for a few days and see if that helps. If he seems to be in a lot of pain or the limp is severe than he should be examined by a vet right away. Your vet can take an x-ray to determine if there is a fracture. He may also need an anti-inflammatory and pain medications to help relieve any discomfort and swelling.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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