Dog Limping: Causes Explored by Veterinarians Elfenbein and Koehler, Updated on May 19, 2023. (Sharing options: Facebook, Twitter, Email, Print)

Limping in dogs is a common concern for pet owners, and it can be a sign of various issues affecting your furry friend's health. This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the potential causes, symptoms, and treatments for limping in dogs.

Causes of Limping in Dogs

The causes of limping in dogs are diverse and can range from injuries and degenerative diseases to conformation issues, infections, cancer, swelling, foreign material in paw pads, neurological diseases, and overuse. Injuries are particularly common in young dogs, while senior Rottweilers are more susceptible to bone cancer. Young Pit Bulls and their mixes often experience tears in the knee's cranial cruciate ligament.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Limping is always an indication of pain in dogs. If your dog is not putting any weight on a limb while walking, it is a sign of an emergency. However, if the limping is new, and your dog is still putting weight on the limb, it might be safe to monitor them for 24 hours before seeking veterinary attention.

Veterinarians may recommend X-rays to identify fractures, dislocations, swelling, tumors, and other bone-related changes, such as arthritis. Mild sedation is often required for X-rays due to dogs' lack of cooperation when asked to lay still, especially when they are in pain. Some veterinarians might also use ultrasounds to look for injuries to tendons or ligaments.

If a bone tumor is suspected, a biopsy will be recommended. Dog limping due to infection may be treated with antibiotics.

Treatment and Cost

The treatment for limping in dogs depends on the cause, with pain control being a common part of the treatment plan. Less severe injuries are generally treated with rest and pain control, while surgical repair is used for torn ligaments, fractures, and some dislocations.

The cost of treating dog limping varies widely. An exam can cost between $50 and $150, X-rays can range from $100 to $400, and orthopedic surgery with a board-certified surgeon can cost between $4,000 and $7,000.

As dogs age, they may limp more frequently due to conditions like bone cancer (osteosarcoma) and orthopedic problems such as elbow dysplasia becoming more common. Bone cancer often causes pain that leads to limping, and early symptoms can be subtle until tumors grow large. Elbow dysplasia causes joint pain and stiffness leading to limping.

Serious Diseases and Limping

Serious diseases such as cancer can also cause limping. Limping that worsens after exercise or becomes more pronounced as the day goes on is more likely to be related to a muscle injury.

In conclusion, limping in dogs can be a sign of various health issues. It is essential to monitor your dog's limping and seek veterinary attention when necessary. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve your dog's chances of recovery.