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Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 8 years and 7 months old | 15 lbs
My 9-year-old Shih Tzu has been limping on and off for 3-4 days now. I checked her paw and it looks like there's a bump or something on the arm she's not walking on. She is only limping sometimes though.
3 Answers

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 17th, 2017
Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM
Veterinarian
Rosie may be suffering from pain caused by arthritis or a sprain, swelling or abscess or a tumor. . This needs to be examined by a veterinarian. An abscess should be lanced, if it is a tumor your vet will assess it via a fine needle aspirate or remove it, and if it is arthritis or an injury, he will prescribe anti-inflammatories and/or pain medication. Please make an appointment with your veterinarian soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Veterinarian
Rose could have an abscess/infection, or wound of some kind, or a growth. Or, the limping could be unrelated to the swelling. If she continues to limp you need to take her in for a full examination and potentially X-rays of the affected leg. Hopefully your vet will give Rosie some pain medication as well!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful