What Could Be Causing Your Dog to Limp?

Few things are more concerning than seeing your dog limp. Whether it happens suddenly after a romp in the yard or develops gradually over time, a limp is your dog’s way of signaling that something isn’t right. While some cases are minor and resolve on their own, others require veterinary attention—sometimes even surgery. Understanding what might be causing your dog’s limp and knowing when to seek help can make all the difference in their recovery.
 

Common Causes of Limping in Dogs

Limping can stem from a variety of issues, ranging from minor injuries to serious medical conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

• Paw Injuries – A thorn, splinter, or cut on the paw pad can cause discomfort, making your dog favor one leg. Sometimes, a lodged object or an infected wound can lead to limping.

• Joint Disease – Conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, or elbow dysplasia can cause chronic pain and intermittent limping, especially in older dogs.

• Ligament Tears – Just like in humans, a torn ACL (cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL, in dogs) is a frequent cause of limping, particularly in active or large-breed dogs.

• Fractures and Dislocations – Trauma from a fall, accident, or rough play can result in broken bones or joint dislocations, leading to severe limping.

• Nerve Damage – If your dog drags a foot or has an unsteady gait, nerve damage could be at play, requiring immediate veterinary attention.

• Cancerous Growths – In some cases, bone tumors (such as osteosarcoma) can weaken the structure of a limb and lead to lameness.
   

When Is It Time to See a Veterinarian?

Not every limp means an emergency, but if your dog is persistently favoring a leg, it's best to seek professional advice. Here are some red flags that indicate a trip to the vet is necessary:

• Limping that lasts more than 24-48 hours without improvement

• Swelling, heat, or an obvious deformity in the affected limb

• Whining, yelping, or aggression when touched

• Inability to bear weight on the leg

• Visible wounds, excessive licking, or signs of infection
   

Ignoring a limp can sometimes lead to worsening pain, compensation injuries in other limbs, or long-term mobility issues. At Veterinary Surgery Specialists, we will conduct a thorough physical  and orthopedic examinations and additional diagnostics such a stance analyzer and set of X-Ray pictures to identify the cause for the symptoms. 
 

When Is Surgery Necessary?

While some causes of limping can be treated with rest, medication, or physical therapy, others require surgical intervention. Surgery is often the best option in cases such as:

• Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Tears – A torn CCL won’t heal on its own, and surgery is the gold standard for restoring stability to the knee joint.

• Fractures – Complex or displaced fractures often need surgical repair with plates, screws, or pins to ensure proper healing.

• Elbow Dysplasia – Some dogs benefit from surgery to remove bone fragments or reshape the joint.

• Tumor Removal – If a bone tumor is causing lameness, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected limb or reduce discomfort.
   

Schedule a Consultation with Veterinary Surgery Specialists Today

Limping in dogs can range from minor injuries to serious orthopedic conditions. The key is to assess the situation and get professional guidance when needed. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment—whether rest, medication, or surgery—can help your dog get back to their playful, pain-free self.
 

If your dog is limping and you’re unsure of the cause, schedule an evaluation at Veterinary Surgery Specialists for expert diagnostics and advanced surgical. Contact our office in West Berlin, New Jersey, by calling (856) 856-VETS and give your dog the comfort and mobility they deserve.