Dog that limps
Do you have a dog that limps? It is not uncommon for dog owners to experience their dog starting to limp. Reasons why a dog limps are often because something hurts, but it can also be because the leg is not working properly without pain being involved. The reasons are many and vary greatly. Sometimes it is due to something as small as an insect bite, but it can also be due to a broken bone or illness. It is not always easy as a dog owner to know whether to wait and see if it goes away on its own. We explain the different reasons why your dog limps, what you should do and when it is time to contact a veterinarian.
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Symptoms of lameness
The cause of lameness in dogs can vary. Some dogs may limp lightly, while others may show more serious symptoms such as obvious discomfort, tremors, or avoidance of putting weight on the leg. Other symptoms of lameness include licking the paw, changes in behavior and appetite, or not getting up. Since lameness in dogs can vary in intensity and come and go, it is a good idea to pay attention to changes in your dog's gait.
Reasons why your dog limps – is it a serious problem?
Dogs may limp on their front legs after resting or they may limp on their back legs after activity. The lameness can also come on suddenly or gradually get worse. Different reasons for lameness can look very similar and connections that are not always as obvious can also be a cause of lameness. Therefore, it is difficult to assess whether the lameness is due to a serious problem.
Causes of a dog limping may include:
- Injuries and trauma
- Sprain or strain
- Cut or object under the paw
- Torn claw or claw damage
- Joint problems such as osteoarthritis or hip dysplasia
- Muscle spasms
- Viper bite or other animals and insects
- Skin diseases and allergies
- Intestinal inflammation
- Other illness or infection
- Congenital malformation
When should you contact a vet if your dog suddenly limps?
If you experience acute lameness as a result of an unfortunate fall or accident, you should seek veterinary help immediately. You should not wait more than a day if the leg swells, the dog shows signs of pain and discomfort or does not step on the leg at all. There is a difference between growing dogs and adult dogs. If you have an adult dog that limps a little, it is okay to wait a while to see how it goes. If the lameness does not go away or comes and goes, you should contact a veterinarian. A growing dog that limps should be checked by a veterinarian immediately.
What happens at the vet?
At the vet you can expect us to listen and ask questions to get a comprehensive picture of the situation. We will then examine the dog, which means we observe how the dog moves. This can be how it walks normally, trots or walks in circles or up stairs. We feel and squeeze the body thoroughly on the legs, back and neck. Sometimes we find the cause of the limping quite quickly, while other times more examinations are needed such as X-ray, ultrasound, CT, MRI, blood test or cytology. Since lameness in dogs is only one symptom of several diagnoses, there is no single way to treat a dog that is lame. Sometimes it is enough to just take it easy and painkillers for the dog to be declared healthy while other times it can surgery be necessary.
How to prevent lameness
The best way to prevent your dog from limping is to give him regular exercise. Feed him a quality food and Make sure your dog doesn't become overweight. If your dog's claws don't grind down naturally on their own, you will need to help with the grooming process. Clipping of dog's claws prevents them from growing too long so that they break or grow into the paws and cause pain. If you need help with nail trimming or have other questions about your pet, you are more than welcome to come to us veterinary clinic in Larvik! We will help you prevent lameness in dogs.
