Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog is limping, paw tender, not swollen. Does he need a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Male | neutered | 5 years and 2 months old | 18 lbs

My dog has been limping on his left paw. I can tell it’s hurting him. It’s not swollen. Or displaced. It’s tender. I’m not sure if I should take him to the vet or not.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jenny, DVM

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 22nd, 2017

If he is weight bearing and limping and not improving with rest, then I would get him seen to see if he has a foreign body or a soft tissue injury at your vet. If he is not wanting to use it at all then it needs to be seen immediately as there may be a fracture or torn ligament.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 14th, 2017

    Poor CJ! He could have strained a ligament or muscle in his leg causing this limping. Given that it got better and now has gotten worse again, CJ should see a vet in the morning for a lameness exam and possibly x-rays. Tonight, I would rest him, take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when he's done.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button