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Dog limping, lifting paw, no pain on touch. Is it an internal injury?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 3 years and 4 months old | 62 lbs

My boy is a very active boy, who likes to run around and chase things. We live on quite a busy street, and we have a wall about 1 - 2 meters high that he jumps onto and off. I recently notice that he limps on his back right paw, or he runs on his other 3 paws. When he stands at the gate, he lift his sore paw in the air. Could there be a chance that he hurt his foot internally? I don't see anything wrong when I touch the paw, nor does he cry when I press on it.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 2nd, 2017

If he is not using the foot at all, then this would be most suspicious of a fractured bone. However, broken bones tend to be very painful and swollen.

Another possibility is that he has a damaged nerve. This can make them limp and would not be painful to the touch.

Either way, if he's not using the leg, then he should be evaluated and treated by a veterinarian.

If he is using the leg, then it may be a torn muscle, tendon, or ligament.

It's best to keep him rested for now. Don't let him jump or run. If he is not showing signs of improvement after three days, then he should go to the vet.

I hope that helps and Koga gets better soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM
Veterinarian
If he is not using the foot at all, then this would be most suspicious of a fractured bone. However, broken bones tend to be very painful and swollen.

Another possibility is that he has a damaged nerve. This can make them limp and would not be painful to the touch.

Either way, if he's not using the leg, then he should be evaluated and treated by a veterinarian.

If he is using the leg, then it may be a torn muscle, tendon, or ligament.

It's best to keep him rested for now. Don't let him jump or run. If he is not showing signs of improvement after three days, then he should go to the vet.

I hope that helps and Koga gets better soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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