Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Become a credit card member today!Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!APPLY NOWLearn More About Petco Pay Benefits
My dog is limping, won't eat, and isn't acting like himself. Why?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 3 months old
I have a 1 year old German shepherd who is limping with his back leg he won't put it on the ground and lifts it up when walking he is also refusing to eat and isn't acting like himself
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on June 9th, 2018
1Pet Parents found this answer helpfulRelated Answers from Veterinarians
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on January 5th, 2017
Poor Bruno! He could have strained a ligament or muscle causing the limping. I would 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. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on October 3rd, 2019
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Buddy. If he is limping, this indicates that his leg is painful to him. If he is otherwise acting normally and there is no history of trauma, you can try resting him for 24 hours. Carry him as much as possible, do not allow him to run, jump or play and take him outside on a leash to go potty. Many mild causes of lameness will resolve with rest. However, if he is worse or not getting better, then he will need to see a veterinarian. X-rays of the limb may be warranted. In the meantime, do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 6th, 2020
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Wallace. Unfortunately, I do not recommend giving any over-the-counter pain medications to dogs. Many are toxic to dogs. Assuming that he is otherwise normal, I recommend that he is kept very quiet for the next few days. This means no running, jumping, playing or stairs. Take him out on a leash to go potty and then bring him right back inside. Most mild cases of lameness will respond to rest. If the lameness does not resolve or gets worse, then he will need to see a veterinarian. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful