Causes of Dog Limps
After a long play session at the dog park, you get your pup back home only to notice that something seems off — they're limping. It can be incredibly stressful for any dog parent to see their pup in pain, but taking quick action will get them (and you) feeling better soon!
Here are a few reasons your dog could be limping:
Sprains
A sprain is a tear or overstretching of a ligament, the tissue that connects bones. This can happen if your pup jumps wrong, twists awkwardly, or falls. Sprains can vary from mild to severe and often require rest and limited activity to heal properly. In some cases, your vet may recommend a brace or wrap to support the injured area.
Broken Bones
If your dog's limp is accompanied by crying out in pain, not putting any weight on the leg, or an obvious deformity, they may have broken a bone. Broken bones are serious injuries that require immediate veterinary attention. Your vet will likely need to take X-rays to determine the extent of the injury and may suggest a splint, cast, or even surgery to ensure proper healing.
Dislocations
A dislocation occurs when the bones that make up a joint are no longer aligned. This can be incredibly painful for your pup and is usually caused by an accident or fall. Dislocations require prompt medical attention to realign the bones and may involve sedation or anesthesia. Recovery often includes restricted activity and follow-up visits to ensure the joint heals correctly.
Torn Ligaments
Like a sprain, a torn ligament results from overstretching or tearing the tissue that connects bones. This can happen from playing too roughly, jumping from heights, or falling. The most common ligament injury in dogs is a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), similar to an ACL injury in humans. Treatment options range from rest and physical therapy to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the tear.
Paw Injury
A hurt paw could also cause your pup's limp. If they're licking their paw and cannot put weight on the limb, look at the area. They may have stepped on a thorn, glass, or sharp object. Check for cuts, punctures, or swelling, and clean the area gently. If the injury is severe or doesn't improve, consult your vet for further treatment.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a common cause of limping, especially in older dogs. This condition results from the degeneration of joint cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness. While there is no cure for arthritis, various treatments can help manage the symptoms, including anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements, weight management, and physical therapy. Regular check-ups with your vet can help monitor and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Infections
Infections, whether bacterial, fungal, or viral, can cause inflammation and pain in your dog's joints, leading to limping. These infections may stem from wounds, insect bites, or underlying health conditions. Your vet can diagnose an infection through blood tests and prescribe appropriate antibiotics or antifungal medications.
Treating Your Dog's Limp
The first step in treating your dog's limp is identifying the cause. It's best to err on caution and schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. The vet will determine the cause of the limp and recommend treatment to get your pup back up and playing in no time!
From day Camps to boarding, the Camp Bow Wow Counselors are here to enhance your pup's life with an enriching and fun environment. Come play with us today at a Camp near you!