If your puppy can move around without pain and it is not causing any issues such as pinching nerves, cutting off blood supply, etc, your vet may recommend monitoring the issue. Depending on the cause of the limp, treatment may or may not be needed. They will recommend X-rays to check for any abnormalities of the bones and joints. If you notice a deformity, a trip to your vet is best. You may notice your puppy limps on one limb or has a limb that is shorter or crooked compared to others. It may also become more apparent as a puppy learns to walk and move around. In most cases, a congenital deformity is apparent from birth. They can be due to genetic issues or problems during development in the womb. Congenital DeformityĬongenital deformities are those that are there from birth. However, in the case of congenital joint issues, careful testing before breeding and removing affected animals from the breeding pool can prevent passing on these issues. As with soft tissue injuries, prevention can be difficult. Additional kennel rest or physical therapy may be beneficial for helping the affected limb recover. ![]() Recovery can take a few weeks to a few months depending on the severity of the injury. For more severe joint problems, such as luxating patellas, elbows, or hips, surgical stabilization can help. For joint injuries, kennel rest, pain or anti-inflammatory medications, and joint supplements can help. In addition, pain meds or anti-inflammatory meds can help with healing. Treatments such as splinting the injury, surgical repair, or amputation are recommended for broken bones. Depending on the cause, treatment can vary. Physical examination and X-rays are the best way to diagnose an issue. These include stiffness when getting up from a sitting or lying position, reluctance to move, or a decrease in normal activity. Joint injuries may also cause more subtle symptoms. Severely broken bones may also appear as large bumps under the skin, or may completely break through the skin and be visible. Similar to soft tissue injuries, joint and bone injuries can present with general symptoms such as swelling, limping, and changes in gait. While it is impossible to prevent a soft tissue injury, keeping an eye out for slippery or uneven surfaces can prevent a fall or accident. Recovery is generally the same, but can include physical therapy to help restabilize the limb. For more severe injuries, additional testing with an orthopedic specialist or surgical correction (such as with torn knee or elbow ligaments) may be needed. For minor injuries, strict kennel rest with leashed walks only, pain meds, or anti-inflammatory medication can all help. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. The vet may recommend X-rays to rule out joint or bone injuries, look for dislocations, and spot large tissue tears. At the vet, they will carefully perform a physical examination. This can help prevent further damage, reduce swelling, and reduce any pain - even if your dog does not seem painful. If you suspect an injury it is best to place your dog on strict kennel rest until seen by a veterinarian. Signs include the leg bending at a slightly wrong angle or looking out of place during movement. You may also spot minor dislocations with a soft tissue injury. The affected limb may also have swelling over the shoulder, elbow, ankle, toes (paws), or surrounding tissues. Your dog may be non-weight-bearing, limp, or have a change of gait. Instead, looking for other symptoms of soft tissue injuries can alert you to an issue. While soft tissue injuries can often present with pain, it may not always be present. Here are some of the most common causes that may lead to a dog limping without visible pain: Soft Tissue Injury Severe limps may also lead to your dog becoming lethargic or reluctant to move from a laying or sitting position. They may also hobble or wince when attempting to walk. Your dog may try to alternate between keeping their affected limbs in the air. This may occur only when they are walking, or when they are standing still. Non-weight-bearing limps are easier to spot, as your dog will attempt to hold one limb in the air. They may also hunch their abdomen, tuck their tail, or hold their head in a strange position to help maintain balance. ![]() Gait changes may look as if your dog is hobbling or hopping rather than walking. It can also change their ability to bear weight on one or more limbs. Causes of Your Dog Limping Without PainĪ limp occurs when there is a change in your dog’s gait or ability to walk.
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