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My dog is limping after running. Vet or home care for his hip?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 2 months old | 65 lbs

Hey my dog biscuit and I walking along a trail today and he took off running after a jackrabbit that ran right in front of us. I called him and he come back after not running all that far but he was limping on his back left leg. I checked and he didn't have any cuts or scrapes so I let him sleep for an hour. Then I checked his joints and it seems like his hip is bothering him. I was wondering if I should take him to the vet now or if I should ice it and let him rest for a few days?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 28th, 2016

Poor guy. If he can bear weight on the limb at all, then it is ok to give him 24-72 hrs with strict activity restrictions (leash walk only, no jumping, running, etc), rest, and cold compresses on the seemingly painful area (the hip), and then taking him in to the vet if not improved.
However if he is not bearinng any weight on the leg, it is best to take him in asap because a more serious injury has occurred that needs to be determined via x-ray and treated right away.
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