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My golden is limping, licking his elbow, and falling. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 12 years and 4 months old | 169 lbs

My golden has been limping for a couple of months now. When it first started, I took him to the vet but, because he was nervous, he hid his symptoms. The vet said he did not need an xray and that it was just arthritis. But now it’s gotten so much worse to where he can barely stand on it. He slides around, walks on his toes, and falls a lot. I have checked his nails and pads for injuries there. He is licking his elbow raw which makes me think that’s where the injury is. What could this be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Daniel Fonza, DVM

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 5th, 2018

Riley licking the elbow that much has me concerned, especially with his age. I would push to have an x-ray or two performed on the affected leg to make sure there is no underlying disease with the bone (bone tumor, bone fragments in joint, etc.) that needs to be addressed. It also looks as though Riley has caused a hot spot over his elbow. I would recommend keeping a cone around his head and applying an ointment such as Sentry Wound Cream (over the counter at Petco) as directed on the box. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be mroe than happy to help you further.
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