My dog is limping and won't put weight on his back leg. What's wrong?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding your dog. If he continues to not bear any weight on that leg, then he will need to see his veterinarian. He will likely need x-rays to ensure that he did not fracture his leg. In the meantime, keep him very quiet to allow his body to rest. Carry him if he needs to move. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!

Try restricting Bruno's activity for 24 hours. Leash walk him for elimination and avoid any running, jumping or rough play. If the lameness persists, have him seen by your veterinarian for a complete physical and orthopedic exam. Bruno may have injured his hip or knee. Xrays will likely be indicated to diagnose or confirm joint disease or ligament damage.

Harley is so cute! It could be that he injured himself while outside, and he's clearly in pain at the moment. 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. If over the next 48 hours you are very concerned about his level of pain (i.e. he's still refusing to put any weight on his leg), it's absolutely fine to take him into a vet sooner. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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.

He really needs to see a vet. You didn’t mention if it was a front leg or hind leg. He could have a simple strain/sprain. It could be a genetic OCD lesion or hip dysphasia. It could be a torn CCL if it’s a back leg. There is no way for us to diagnose this via the internet. He needs to be examined by a vet in person. It sounds like he’s in pain and that’s why he’s not eating.

There are a number of reasons that a dog will not put weight on a leg suddenly. They can range from a back problem, to a soft tissue injury like an injured knee, to a problem in the bones and joints, or even a problem in the paws or nails. The only way to determine the problem is to have your veterinarian perform an examination and possibly take x-rays. Some conditions are mild and will resolve with rest and pain medication, but some will require more extensive treatment. I would recommend keeping Delilah rested (no running or jumping) until you can have your veterinarian examine her to determine what is causing the problem and decide how to treat it. Good luck! I hope Delilah feels better soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

It sounds like Diamond has a very sore back leg if she hasn't beared significant weight on it in 3 days. It is unlikely that it is related to her heat cycle. Start by checking her paw on the affected limb to make sure there isn't something stuck in between or under her toes (thorn, plant and, etc). If there isn't something that can be easily removed, then she should see her veterinarian. In the meantime, give her strict rest (no running, jumping or playing and limit stairs). She will likely need an x- ray of the painful area on that leg. In the hind limb, knee or hip pain are most common, but some dogs will experience lower back pain. Good luck and I hope Diamond is feeling better soon!