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Why is my dog whimpering when I touch his thigh, no visible wound?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 4 years and 7 months old | 52 lbs

Hi, I came home yesterday from a 3 hour appointment to find that one of my 4 dogs, an Australian Shepard/collie mix, has some sort of injury or problem that is not visible as any sort of growth or wound, but his hair makes it hard to see anything on the skin. Whenever I would touch his thigh yesterday he would wimper without any pressure being applied. Today he is slightly better but will still whimper if you put any pressure on his thigh.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Juliana,  DVM

Answered By Juliana, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 24th, 2018

I’m sorry to hear that Louie is uncomfortable. Sensitivity of one of the back legs can be caused by many things including a soft tissue strain or sprain, arthritis of the hip or radiating back pain, a bite wound from another dog or even an insect bite. If he is improving a little with time I would give him the weekend to rest but if not resolving by Monday have his veterinarian evaluate him. Keep an eye on the area for swelling, redness, wetness (from licking or a wound). These signs or worsening discomfort may be indications to have him seen sooner. I hope Louie is feeling better ASAP!
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