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My dog woke up limping. What's causing it and when to see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 15 days old | 7 lbs

My dog woke up this morning and started limping like his leg was asleep but it's been 4hrs and nothing has changed. I'm very concerned

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 16th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Poor Coal! It could be a strain or a sprain from being overly active yesterday. If he is weight bearing I doubt it is broken. Other causes for limping are tick borne illness like lyme disease. If it a back leg it could be a torn ACL or a luxated knee cap which is common in small breeds.

If he is eating and drinking and otherwise acting normal set up an appointment monday if he is still limping.

Good luck!

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on June 17th, 2019
Peace could be limping for many reasons including arthritis, an injury or even something like Lyme disease. A physical exam is the only way to begin to determine the cause of limping. Try to get this done within the next 24 hours. Until she is examined, she should have strict exercise restriction so no walks/running/jumping. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ann Dion, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 15th, 2018
Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Limping can be caused by pain, which can be due to an injury, arthritis, or a disease that causes inflammation of the joints such as an immune attack on the joints, or an infectious cause such as Lyme disease.
Since the limp has 'jumped limbs' I would be more concerned about either an immune disease (IMPA) or Lyme disease.

These conditions are very painful and this pain and fever can cause animals to be tired, weak and not want to eat.
I recommend a visit to the vet as soon as you can.
Best of luck with Max, I hope he feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on December 6th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like he has improved but is not yet back to normal 100%. I would recommend you continue to monitor him for now. Keep in mind that his activity should be limited as he recovers. If he continues to limp within the next week, I recommend you have him reevaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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