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Why does my dog limp on his back leg after walks, but shows no pain?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 3 years old | 45 lbs

My dog has recently started limping quite badly on his back leg after a long walk, it usually lasts 24hrs approx. The most recent occasion he could not walk on either of his back legs for approx 12hrs and he has been limping badly on 1 back leg for 24hrs. He does not seem to be in pain when I touch or gently massage his back legs which makes it harder to determine if its his hips, legs or feet.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on February 17th, 2019

Poor Alfie! It sounds like he has a chronic problem. This could be related to an abnormality within the bone structure of his lower back, or hips. Sometimes an issue like hip dysplasia or a pinched nerve can show up like this. It would be less common, but an injury to his cruciate ligaments could also present this way. The only way to know will be to have Alfie visit his veterinarian. The doctor will palpate all his legs to determine the cause. The doctor may also need radiographs to look for changes to the bone. Until you get him into the veterinarian, he needs strict rest, so no walks, no running, no playing and try to keep stairs to a minimum.
I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on March 1st, 2017
Poor Bruno! He could be sore from his walk, or he could have an injury such as a rupture of his cranial cruciate ligament which can be common in large breed dogs. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No runninf, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only and bring him right back in when he's done. Should he still be limping after this time, I would take Bruno into the vet. The vet can diagnose what is causing his limping and can discuss treatment options with you. The vet may give him pain relief as well. Please do not give Bruno 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 August 19th, 2018
Alf is showing you he is in pain by not putting pressure on his back leg. If he wasn't in pain, he would be able to use the leg. I recommend resting him for the next 48 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 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!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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