Why is my dog limping and whining in pain? What's wrong?

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Levi definitely could have hurt himself while hunting - he could have caused some soft tissue damage (damage to the muscles or ligaments) or a fracture (broken bone). X-rays would be able to determine if a bone is broken or if there is damage to a joint. He is a little bit young to have arthritis, but it is still possible. It is definitely concerning that the carprofen did not help him, as it is a great pain reliever for dogs, especially for bone/joint pain. A few other things that could be going on are a tumor of the bone or a disease transmitted by a tick. Because Levi was hunting, it is very possible that he was bitten by a tick (he does not necessarily have to have a tick on him at the moment). Ticks can transmit many diseases, including Lyme disease, which can cause limping. A quick blood test could rule this out. In the meantime, I recommend keeping Levi as quiet as possible - definitely no hunting until the cause of his limp is diagnosed. I hope this helps!

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Depending on his age and breed, DJ may have arthritis in one of his joints or an ongoing infection. Certain conditions such as Lyme disease and autoimmune conditions can cause occasional limping, as you described. Your vet can perform x-rays and blood work to rule out the conditions above. I hope this helps and am happy to answer any other questions you may have!

Limping can mean a lot of different things, including a muscle sprain or a ligament injury. It also depends on which leg is affected and exactly where the injury is on the limb. It is best to get your pet evaluated by a vet who can do a lameness exam to localize where the problem is on the leg. They will be able to recommend the appropriate treatment, whether it is just anti-inflammatory medication or potential surgery if the injury is involving the ligament. Many dogs will appear to act completely normal with a knee ligament injury.

It sounds like he needs to be examined by a vet to determine the cause. He could have an infection (Lyme disease, etc.), immune mediated polyarthritis, panosteitis , etc. Your vet can run lab-work and take an x-ray to help diagnose. You could try to find a mobile vet to come to your house or call your vet and see if he/she could prescribe a sedative to make the visit easier. You definitely want to make the experience positive to try and change his aggressive behavior. He will need medical care throughout his life and it makes it very difficult for both the dog and vet. Hope he feels better soon and the visit goes smoothly!

Dogs can limp for a variety of reasons including a soft tissue injury such as a sprain, infection, a fractured bone or damage to a ligament or tendon. In cases of a mild sprain or strain, reducing Monah's activity level for a few days should help her to heal. If the lameness is not improving, you notice any swelling or Monah seems lethargic you should have her seen by a veterinarian. They may recommend an xray to better determine what is causing the lameness.

Since Sami can't talk, only a physical exam will be able to determine the source of the lameness. Just like people, the pain/limping can be related to many causes including a ligament tears, soft tissue injury, a developmental abnormality or even a spinal issue. You may try strict rest for a few days (no walks, running, jumping or stairs). If Sami does not improve or if he gets worse, have him examined by the veterinarian. Pets who exhibit toe touching lameness on the hing legs are a concern for a tear of the cranial cruciate ligament which is serious. He may need radiographs and the doctor will determine this based on the exam. I hope he starts feeling better quickly.

Hi! Thanks for entrusting us with Thor's care today! Lameness or pain can be a sign of a few things that range from a muscle sprain to even a fracture. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian so that this can be further assessed which will likely include radiographs. Treatment will be dependent on findings though at the very least pain control medications can be prescribed. For now, try to rest him as much as possible which in itself can make a big difference. Good luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!