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Dog limping after grooming: Is it a cut nail or pulled muscle?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | neutered | 6 years and 9 months old | 80 lbs

I just brought my dog to Petco for grooming yesterday. After he came home he was limping (back left foot). I don't know if they accidently cut too far into his claw or if he pulled a muscle getting on or off the grooming table?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 18th, 2024

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Cody. I'm sorry he's been limping! Without seeing his paw, I can't say for sure if they cut too far into his claw, but that could be a possibility. It could also be he hurt himself getting on and off the table. 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.

In addition, I would check his claws to see if any do look abnormally short. If you see a lot of blood coming from one, the area around the claw is hot, warm to the touch, swollen, or you see pus, then he will need to see a vet right away. I hope this helps!

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on March 30th, 2020
It could be Milo twisted his leg. 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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 20th, 2020
Poor Boris! He's limping because he's in pain. 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. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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