Why Is My Dog Limping? Common Causes and Treatments

If you've noticed a change in how your dog walks, it's understandable that you might be worried — even if it's only slight. Your dog might be limping for a few reasons, from minor injuries to more serious health issues, like Lyme disease or osteoarthritis.¹ But don't fret! By reaching out to your vet, you can learn what's going on and be in a better position to help your pup.

Below, we’ll explore some of the common causes of limping in dogs and guide you through the best steps to take for their care.

Types of Dog Limps

Dog limping generally falls into two categories: sudden onset limping and gradual onset limping.¹ Knowing this can help you narrow down the possible causes, issues, and treatment options. A dog suddenly limping points to an injury, while a gradual increase in limping may suggest a chronic condition.

For example, a condition like Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), which affects the spine, often causes a gradual limp that worsens over time.

What Causes Sudden Onset vs. Gradual Limping in Dogs?

Noticing whether your dog’s limp appeared suddenly or developed over time can help you and your vet figure out the underlying cause and best course of action for your pup’s treatment. Here are some causes of dog limping to look out for.

Causes of sudden onset limping

If your dog is suddenly limping, it could be due to:¹

• Leg injury, sprain, or trauma: If your dog is limping after playing, they may have broken a bone, injured a ligament, or damaged a joint in their leg(s) and/or hip(s). 
• Paw injury: Sharp objects — like glass, nails, or thorns — can get stuck in your dog’s paw, causing pain and making them avoid putting weight on that leg. If not treated, it could lead to swelling in their paw(s) or an infection.
• Dislocation: A dislocated hip or joint can make it difficult for your dog to walk or bear weight on the affected limb.

Causes of gradual onset limping

If your dog’s limp has developed slowly over time, it may have been brought on by a disease or chronic condition. Here are a few potential reasons why a limp may develop:¹

• Bone disease: Conditions like hypertrophic osteodystrophy or some cancers in dogs can make movement painful. 
• Joint disease: Issues like hip dysplasia and other degenerative joint conditions affect the bones and cartilage in the hip joint. These conditions can cause gradual onset limping as they worsen.
• Osteoarthritis: This condition involves the inflammation of one or more joints, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and limping as the osteoarthritis progresses.
• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) wear: The ACL, which is the fibrous tissue that supports the knee joint, can deteriorate over time and lead to lameness in dogs. In severe cases, ACL surgery may be required to restore your dog’s mobility and reduce pain.

Other Signs To Look for if Your Dog Is Limping

In addition to identifying whether a limp is sudden or gradual, there are other questions to ask yourself: ¹

• Are there signs of a visible wound or injury?
• Is your dog limping on their back leg or front leg?
• Is your dog limping after playing, or after resting and sleeping?
• Does your dog seem to be in pain?
• Is your dog licking their leg?

These types of details provide important clues that may help you and your vet discover what might be wrong.

How To Treat a Limping Dog at Home and When To See a Vet

If your dog is limping, scheduling an appointment with your vet can help you figure out the root of the problem and decide on the best treatment option. In the meantime, try not to touch or examine your dog’s leg if they’re in severe pain, as this could make the injury worse.²

Most dogs won’t walk on a broken leg, torn ligament, or dislocated joint. So if your dog avoids using the limb, immediate vet attention may be necessary.²

To keep your dog comfortable at home, ask your vet about applying a bandage if there’s a visible wound, or using an ice pack or cold compress to reduce any swelling. If there isn’t an obvious injury, keep a close eye on your dog’s condition and watch for signs of an infection, like a fever or a loss of appetite.²

Your vet may recommend supplements, physical therapy, or anti-inflammatories to aid your dog’s recovery.

Dog Limping Treatment Costs

When you visit the vet for your dog’s limp, you can expect the cost of the office visit to range from $340 – $510, depending on the animal hospital and other factors. Additional diagnostic tests, like X-rays and blood tests, can add several hundred dollars to the total. The final cost will depend on the treatment plan your vet recommends.

Costs for a cast, leg brace, or harness

For injuries like broken bones, joint issues, or ligament tears, your vet may suggest using a cast, leg brace, or harness to stabilize the limb. This allows the injury to heal without surgery. This type of treatment can cost up to $1,000, depending on the severity of the injury, the size of your dog, and other factors.³

Surgical costs

If your dog needs surgery, the cost will vary based on the complexity of the procedure, the type of injury, and your dog’s age and size. Common surgeries and their estimated costs include:

• Hip dysplasia surgery: The total cost of hip dysplasia surgery usually falls between $1,200 and $6,000.
• Femoral head osteotomy (FHO) surgery: FHO surgery in dogs can cost between $1,200 and $2,500.
• ACL surgery: The cost of dog ACL surgery may be within the range of $1,500 – $7,000.

Your dog may also need pain medication, physical therapy, or other treatments after surgery, which can add to the total cost of treating your dog’s limp.

Dog Limping FAQs

Have more questions about why your dog is limping and how to treat a limp? Here are some common FAQs.

My dog is limping but shows no sign of pain. What should I do?

Even if your dog doesn’t seem to be in pain, a limp is still a sign of an issue. It could be a mild injury, arthritis, or another condition. Keep your dog rested and schedule a vet appointment to rule out anything serious.

Sometimes, dogs mask pain well. So it’s best to get your dog the care they need if you notice them limping.

Can I give my dog aspirin for a limp?

No, it’s not safe to give your dog human medications, like ibuprofen, because these can be toxic to pets. Consult your vet if your dog needs pain relief — they can recommend medications specifically designed for dogs that are safe and effective when treating the cause of a limp.⁴

How do I transport a limping dog?

If your dog is limping a lot or you notice swelling or an obvious broken bone, take them to the vet or an emergency clinic. Try to keep your dog off the injured leg, and if you can carry them, support their head and hips.¹

For larger dogs, help them into the car by supporting their weight or using a blanket as a sling. Always ask for help when you arrive at the vet to avoid injuring your dog further.¹

Pet Insurance May Be Able To Help Keep Your Dog on Their Feet

Limping can be caused by sudden injuries, chronic conditions like arthritis, or something stuck in your dog’s paw. Treatment options can vary from braces or casts to surgery, with costs depending on the severity of the injury.

Thankfully, MetLife Pet Insurance may be able to help cover these expenses, including vet visits and treatments, which can make it easier to manage your dog’s health. To find out more, get a quote for dog insurance today.