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My puppy's paw was stepped on. He's tired now, what should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shiba Inu | Male | neutered | 3 months old | 15 lbs

Hello, one of my friends accidentally stepped on my Shiba’s paws and he screamed and cried. After a minute or so he calmed down and eventually was able to walk on it again. However, his mood changed and now he’s tired (he already has kennel cough) and he’s only three months old. What do I do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jenny, DVM

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 17th, 2017

Puppies are stronger than you think and they are a lot like babies, traumatic events such as this scare them more than actually hurt them. If he is walking on it then it is unlikely broken. It may be a little sore though so you may want to not let him run and jump too much for the next day or so. As far as his mood goes, he may be tired for the activity and the stress from the event. Puppies play and sleep hard so it is not uncommon that he needs a break or nap afterwards. If he is not normal by morning then I would be concerned and have him checked by your vet.
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