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My dog limps after old injury. Is his good hip at risk of damage?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Basset Hound | Male | neutered | 9 months and 13 days old | 120 lbs

My dog got hit by a car on his left hip when he was about 6m and he seems to have recovered fine when he's excited he uses his back legs no problem, he has no problem running but when he walks he limps alot. Is it okay for him to limp. Will that cause damage to his good hip? What could I do to help?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 14th, 2017

If your dog is consistently limping when he walks I would be concerned about some permanent damage he sustained after being hit. He may have had something like a pelvic fracture that did not heal properly. This could cause issues in the long run because it will put increased stress and strain on his other hip. The likelihood of him developing arthritis in this injured hip is much more likely as well.

I would recommend taking Duke to see your vet and have X-rays performed. To get very good X-rays he may need to be sedated. Your vet can determine from the X-rays if there is anything that can be done to help allieviate the problem.

It would be wise to get Duke started on a joint supplement and to keep him at a good, healthy and trim weight since excess weight can cause more joint problems.

I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian
Published on November 14th, 2017
Poor Dike. He could be suffering from arthritis as the weather starts to get cooler or he could have injured his legs by playing or jumping. It could just be a coincidence that he hurt one then the other a few days later.

I would definitely start him in a high quality joint supplement like dasuquin, duralactin, or flexadin chews. I would also start him on some fish oil help increase his omega 3 fatty acids. If he is overweight I would try to get him to lose weight as this will make it easier on his joints long term. If he isn’t improving or getting worse I would definitely have your vet take a look at him. Your vet can prescribe him an anti-inflammatory if needed. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 3rd, 2018
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Mighty. He is likely experiencing joint pain after his walk from over exerting himself. This can be exemplified by limping, being slow to rise from laying down and struggling to do stairs. If this sounds familiar, he will need to see his veterinarian. He may need x-rays and depending on the results pain medication or joint supplements. 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 Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 30th, 2017
Is this really a hip issue or does he have a ligament tear in the knee which is much more common. Either way, it is possible to have good and bad days. If the bad days are more frequent that the good you should probably have him rechecked by your vet. He may need stronger medications or a medication change all together. He may need a leg brace (if it's a knee ligament issue). Hard for me to say much without knowing the definitive diagnosis. Hope this helps. Best wishes.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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