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My dog's limping for a month, not broken. Why does he tuck his leg?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | neutered

My dog has been limping for close to, if not more than a month now. I took him to a vet, who said it wasn't broken, still limping, tucks leg when sits

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on July 7th, 2016

Limping can be caused by several different problems - if x-rays didn't show a fracture, then it is likely that Bentley has some type of soft-tissue injury causing him to limp. One of the most common injuries like this that we see in dogs is a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) - this is the same ligament that human athletes sometimes injure, called the ACL in humans. This ligament is responsible for stabilizing the knee joint when the dog walks, so if it is torn it causes significant lameness that does not improve with rest and pain medication. Other possible causes of limping for over a month would be a torn muscle, or a torn tendon or ligament in another part of the leg. Unfortunately, these injuries will not show up on x-rays. If your veterinarian doesn't have any other suggestions for further testing (such as a sedated orthopedic exam to check joint stability), then I would recommend asking for a referral to an orthopedic specialist. Bentley may need an MRI or other advanced imaging to diagnose the problem.

25Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Consider a consult with a veterinary orthopedic specialist or a veterinary neurologist. X-rays of the affected limb and spine may be necessary. Restrict activity to just leash walks for elimination. Avoid excessive running, jumping or rough play until the recheck/consult.
8Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Poor Bentley. It definitely sounds like there is something wrong with his leg. He could have a torn ligament , or if he is an older dog (I don't know his age) it could be arthritis. Without seeing him in person, I can't say what it is, but I do recommend you either take him back to your vet or to another vet for a second opinion.
10Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 10th, 2019
Poor guy. He may have a ligament or tendon injury, that is not so easily detected on an x-ray. I would recommend continuing to give the medication as prescribed, and then have Lucky rechecked by your vet soon. Additional pain medication may be needed, as well as more advanced diagnostics, such as an ultrasound of the joints in the leg.
I hope that Lucky feels bettter soon! Best of luck and take care. : )
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 18th, 2017
He could have a strain, sprain, loose knee cap, or possibly a torn ligament. Since this has been going on for 17 days, he should be examined by a vet to determine the cause. Your vet can take an x-ray, if needed, to help diagnose and then determine the best way to treat. He may need an anti-inflammatory, pain medications, or possibly surgery to fix the problem.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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