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My dog's limping after foot slammed in door. When to see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | 6 years and 10 months old | 10 lbs

I accidentally slammed my dogs back foot in my door. She cried and is limping. It’s about a hour later still looming not crying she doesn’t flinch when I touch it doesn’t cry it’s not swollen or look broken . What do I do? How long should I watch her for? She has a couple of scrapes on the back of her heal .

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on September 25th, 2019

I would monitor Bella and if the area begins to swell, she starts limping again, or she seems painful, bring her to a vet right away. Broken toes may have minimal swelling or pain but still might need care from your veterinarian depending on the injury. Keeping any scrapes clean and dry to prevent infection is also a good idea.

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA
Veterinarian
Published on July 26th, 2017
If Bella is still limping after a week there could be something more serious going on such as a fracture or a ruptured ligament. Your vet will be able to diagnose what is going on after a full physical exam and possibly X-rays. She will also be able to prescribe pain medications. In the meanwhile, do not give Bella any over the counter medications as these can be toxic to dogs.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on March 5th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It looks like the paw itself has some inflammation and ulceration. This was probably secondary to a traumatic injury. I do think that it would be best to have Bella evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. One of the main reasons is that lesions in that part of the paw can get easily infected so your veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics. Good luck and have a good night! I am really hoping for a speedy recovery for your Bella!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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