Dog limping after playing outside, then walking normally. What's wrong?

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.

Hello. I would recommend trying to rest your pet for the next few days to make sure all is OK. If she continues to act like everything is fine, then a visit is probably un-necessary. She may have just had a minor sprain or mild injury that just worked its self out. If the lameness returns, then go see the vet for an evaluation. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Bauer! Limping and crying out is a sign of pain. I am glad that he is putting weight on the leg. Common causes of a hing leg injury are: strain or sprain of the muscle, torn ACL (ligament in the knee), out of place knee cap (common in small dogs), back injury (sciatic pain), aggravated hip dysplasia, luxated hip or a fracture. I would strictly rest Bauer, which means no running/jumping/stairs, no playing with other dogs or toys and leash walking only. If the injury doesn't start to improve in a few days then Bauer should be examined by your Vet. I wish you the best!

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Goose. Poor boy. I'm concerned hr leg is in pain causing her to lick it a lot and leading her to limp. Limping means she is in pain. I recommend resting her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to toilet on a leash, and bring her right back in when she's done. If she still appears painful after this time, then I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. She may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. I hope this helps!

Hello, and thank you for your question. Meg is a beautiful girl! I would recommend resting her for the next 24 hours (no running, jumping, or rough housing). If her limping does not improve by then, then I would recommend taking her to the vet to rule out a possible sprain/strain, dislocation, or fracture. They may be able to detect this through physical exam alone, or with the help of x-rays as well. I hope this helps, and that Meg feels better soon!

Its possible that the leg may still be bothering Michael a little or it may be unrelated. I would recommend strict rest for the next 3 days (no walks, running or jumping), if he is still lame go ahead an take him to the vet. If he is getting worse at any point, go ahead and take him to the vet. You may opt to go ahead and have him seen to get pain medications as well since this is the fastest way to relive any pain. At home, gentle massage and a warm (not hot) compress may help as well. I hope he feels better quickly! Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Poor Coal! It could be a strain or a sprain from being overly active yesterday. If he is weight bearing I doubt it is broken. Other causes for limping are tick borne illness like lyme disease. If it a back leg it could be a torn ACL or a luxated knee cap which is common in small breeds. If he is eating and drinking and otherwise acting normal set up an appointment monday if he is still limping. Good luck!