My young German Shepherd is limping, shifting paws. What's wrong?

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am sorry that Gem isn't feeling well! From what I am understanding is that Gem has been on and off limping on different legs at different times. There are few things that could be going on: Panosteitis or Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy, both occur in young, rapidly growing dogs. I see Panosteitis a lot in German Shepherds. Both are diagnosed on X-rays and physical exam. Another possibility is lyme disease. I recommend taking Gem in to your Vet when she is actively limping. Have her tested for lyme and some X-rays done. Since we can not examine Gem, we are not allowed to prescribe medications or provide doses of human medications. Human medications are not recommended for dogs. Dogs metabolize drugs differently then people and the medication may interfere with what your Vet prescribes based on their diagnosis. I hope this helps and you get to the bottom of Gem's limping!

There are many possible reasons but especially in German shepherds, hip dysplasia would be a serious concern, especially if she is reluctant to jump up or stretch. Most muscle injuries would be expected to be improving over 3-4days and xrays would be advisable if not settling

Large breed growing dogs can develop a common problem called panosteitis. This is caused by fast growing bones. However, German Shepherds are also known for elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. I would encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian soon to make sure that there are no other concerns. Panosteitis can come and go for months. Canine anti inflammatory medications are usually used for comfort. Best of luck and I hope that Princess improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

Poor Damon! The limo definitely looks swollen but without me examining him I cannot say WHY it is swollen and why he is limping. He could have a soft tissue injury like a sprain or torn ligament or he could have a fractured bone somewhere or even an infection. Since it has been going on for a few days and has only gotten worse and he isn’t eating then I would have your vet or local emergency vet look at him soon. they will be able to help determine the cause, localize the pain, see if he has a fever and help come up with a plan to make him feel better. They will be able to do blood work and X-rays if needed. I hope this helps!

If the radiographs were not remarkable, the pain Hugo is experiencing is likely from soft tissue and / or nerve pain. True ligamentous or tendinous ruptures do not often occur in the forelimb in the dog, though it is possible. Advanced imaging or scoping would be needed to confirm a diagnosis. We tend to see these issues in the hind end most often particularly in larger breed dogs like GSDs. The best things you can do for Hugo right now are the following: -Most important thing: he needs to rest his leg; that means no going outside unless on a leash, and even with leash, only to do his business. Should limit use of the leg as much as possible over the next 5 to 7 days. This will be difficult with GSD puppy but it is needed. If your veterinarian did not discuss the possibility of using a small sedative over the course of the next week, you might bring it up should it become too difficult to keep Hugo down. -Give any prescribed medications from your veterinarian as directed. If you walked into my office, I would have prescribed an anti-inflammatory and some pain medication. Hopefully your vet did the same. If he did not and Hugo is still experiencing discomfort you should call and request meds. Hope this makes sense. Consult with me if you have further concerns.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Tyson. If he is otherwise acting normal, give him strict rest for 24 hours. This means no running, jumping or playing. Take him on a leash to potty and bring him straight back inside. Do not take him for walks. Many mild cases of lameness will resolve with rest. If this does not help or his symptoms worsen, then he will need to see his veterinarian. There is a common condition in young German Shepherds known as panosteitis. This can be diagnosed with x-rays. In the meantime, do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Alpha! Since it has already been a few days I think he can wait one more day if he is otherwise eating. Possible causes are: strain or sprain, OCD, elbow dysplasia, panosteitis (common in young growing German Shepherds), HOD or Lyme disease. Please do not give an human OTC pain medications as it may interfere with drugs your Vet may want to prescribe. If you think he is in terrible pain then have him seen today on emergency. I wish Alpha the best!