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My puppy fell and is limping. Is it a serious injury or just a sprain?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My 10 week old puppy fell off the sofa yesterday morning landing on his back right leg. He yelled in pain for about 45 seconds. He is still limping slightly but will put weight on it. There is no obvious swelling. He is the same in himself. Still playful, eating etc. I have applied an ice pack yesterday and making him rest. When feeling the leg and applying pressure, he doesn't notice, no signs of any pain. Is there any other advice? Is this likely to be more serious than a sprain?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 1st, 2017

It could be a sprain, but given that he is a young puppy, I would recommend having him checked out by a vet. You want to make sure it is just a sprain, instead of something more serious like a fracture of torn ligament which could affect his growth. I would rest him for now, no running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when done. Take him into the vet on Monday for an exam to be safe.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on April 24th, 2019
That is possible. If its not swollen or obviously painful when touched, and he's otherwise acting normally, give him a couple of days of rest (do not encourage rough play, avoid long walks, etc) and see how he does. If the limp is persisting after 3-4 days, take him to your vet. Likewise if he seems increasingly painful, it becomes swollen, etc, take him in.
Please don't give any over the counter medications for pain, as there are not safe and effective options of human medications that you can give him. Additionally, if you give him something for pain then take him to the vet, your vet has fewer options to effectively manage his pain.
Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on March 14th, 2017
Poor Sonny! I would have him seen by a vet today for this. When a young puppy injuries themselves, it's best to have this examined right away to prevent any adverse effects on their growth. The vet can do a lameness exam and x-rays to diagnose what is causing him to limp, and can discuss treatment options with you.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on December 29th, 2017
Hi! Thanks for entrusting us with Phat boy's care today! Lameness 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. You could perhaps check with another veterinarian for another examination. Good luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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