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My dog is limping badly and can't put weight on his leg. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 9 years and 8 months old | 90 lbs

i have a mixed breed dog approx 90lbs. eats n drinks never had any health issues, today after he had breakfast, him n his sisters went outside and basically lounged around the pool. it was 83* today we live in phoenix az. when he went to come in for dinner, he got up limping, bad enough he cant put weight on it. this was at 5-5:30. now at 11:00 he couldn't get outside so i put him on his bed at the foot of mine. (he limped in there putting no weight on leg. ANY IDEAS???

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 12th, 2018

Harley is so cute! It could be that he injured himself while outside, and he's clearly in pain at the moment. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. If over the next 48 hours you are very concerned about his level of pain (i.e. he's still refusing to put any weight on his leg), it's absolutely fine to take him into a vet sooner. Good luck, I hope this helps!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on June 17th, 2018

    Poor Harley! If he's holding the leg up completely, and hiding under the couch and growling at you, it sounds like he's in quite a bit of pain. Because of this, it would be best to take him to an emergency clinic today to be seen, if you can. He may have a broken bone in his leg, or a serious injury such as a torn cruciate ligament in his knee. Your veterinarian can do a complete orthopedic exam and may also take x-rays if needed to determine what's wrong.

    If you aren't able to go to an emergency clinic today, then I would definitely take him in to see your regular vet first thing tomorrow morning. In the meantime, let him rest and restrict his activity as much as possible to try and avoid making the injury worse.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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