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My dog is limping on his back leg after park, no pain. Should I see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old

I took the pups to the Dog park yesterday and after we got home I noticed Donny was limping on his back leg. I moved it around and put pressure on different muscles and he didn't react at all. I couldn't isolate and areas. He is still limping today. Should I give it time or call in an appointment to check it out?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 13th, 2017

I suggest you check the paws and inbetween the toes for reddening, a thorn or injury. IF you cannot find anything and Donatello still limps today I suggest you make an appointment with your veterinarian as sudden lameness such as this often is caused by a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, which may require surgery. Of course there could be just a strain or sprain also. Your vet will do a special exam to check whether there is a cruciate rupture, and may want to take x-rays.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Restrict his activity to just leash walks for elimination. Avoid or prevent excessive running, jumping or rough play. If he is still limping after 24-48 hours, have him examined by your veterinarian. Monitor for swelling or bruising.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 6th, 2019

    Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

    I am sorry to hear Cash is limping but glad he seems OK otherwise. There are many causes for limping including soft tissue injuries, ligament tears, fractures, sprains/strains, dislocations, and even certain types of cancers. I would recommend Cash see his veterinarian very soon for an exam and to check out the affected leg. Your veterinarian may recommend taking x-rays if needed in order to make a diagnosis. Until then, I would try to keep him from sprinting, running, jumping, and going up and down stairs so he doesn't bother the leg further.

    I hope this helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Catherine Stecyk

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 4th, 2019

    Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I recommend restricting Bob's exercise for at least the next 2 weeks to allow whatever injury is present to heal. This means no off-leash activity, no running or roughhousing with other pets. Ideally he would remain crated while at home during this time, and leash walked out to use the bathroom. If Bob continues to limp for the next few days despite the exercise restriction, I highly recommend having him seen by a veterinarian. Your vet can examine him and may recommend x-rays of the limb. I hope this is helpful!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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