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My dog is limping and holding his leg up. Should I be worried?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | 1 year and 8 months old

He was not limping he was just sitting as soon as he stand up he started to limp and keep his leg in air then i did infrared heating he then put hid leg on floor bjt sometimes he put and sometimes raises and limls now i am worried and tense is it serious or life threatening or can it also causes seizures or any other harmful thing?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 21st, 2017

Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Limping or lameness can be caused by a variety of conditions. Possibilities include soft tissue injury (such as a muscle sprain), fracture, bone tumors, cranial cruciate ligament tear (if it is a hindlimb), etc. Limping is not something that is associated with seizures and it does not tend to be life-threatening. It is though an indication of pain and warrants further investigation to ensure Danny's comfort.

I recommend that you have Danny evaluated by your veterinarian so that the pain can be localized and further diagnostics pursued to direct therapy at the specific cause. At the very least, pain control/anti-inflammatory medications can be started to make him more comfortable. Sometimes if it just a soft tissue injury, it may improve just with rest. Keep him quiet and prevent excessive exercise or playing for at least 1-2 weeks. Good luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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