Why is my 9-month-old puppy limping but still running around?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By David Darvishian

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 17th, 2017

  Hi and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! So sorry to hear about Tank. Normally resting the leg is a good start but trying to rest puppies can be very challenging. You could confine him to a crate and not allow him to play with the others for a few days and see if the problem improves. Leash walks only also, no off leash activity and no playing. Possible reasons for the limp include some kind of trauma affecting the bone or soft tissues of the leg, a developmental problem, a nutritional problem, or an inflammatory/infectious problem. Injuries to the nails and foot pads can be very painful thus leading to limping. The best advice is after resting, if the problem continues, please see your veterinarian. A physical exam, orthopedic exam, and imaging studies (xrays) may be used to determine why Tank is limping. I hope Tank improves soon.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on October 28th, 2018

  Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
  
  Limping in a puppy that has remained from the previous day to the next is concerning for a 'true injury' as puppies with a slight pain often ignore it as they are so excited about everything.
  
  Possible causes include: soft tissue injury, a ruptured ligament, fractured bone, congenital malformation, problems inside the joint, etc.
  
  If she is otherwise happy and playing, waiting a few days to see if it is a soft tissue injury that resolves is an OK plan. DO NOT give any human medications for pain at home as many are toxic and do much more damage than good.
  
  If she is not eating, not walking, not putting weight on the leg, or if it persists after 5 days, then I would go to the vet.
  
  Best of luck with Pumpkin, I hope she feels better soon!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

  Veterinary Technician

  Published on August 19th, 2020

  I'd be worried about a sprain or other internal injury to the joint or tissues that could be causing pain or stiffness without visible injury. Some large breed dogs are also prone to joint pain/stiffness during growth spurts at around this age (Panosteitis) which could be another cause. If the lameness and pain are continuing, I'd have RIker checked out by your vet. Until you can get into the vet, limiting his activity to leashed only walks to go potty may help reduce any further injury or pain until it can be figured out.

  

  3Pet Parents found this answer helpful