June 16, 2020 By petcure 0

Lameness/limping in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What is Lameness (or limping)

Lameness (or limping) in dogs can be caused by several underlying reasons. Lameness or limping means the dog is walking abnormally on one or more limbs. If your dog is limping, it’s important to take action.  

Symptoms 

  • Fever
  • Excessive swelling in one or more limbs 
  • Loss of muscle mass around the affected leg
  • Swelling or abnormalities around the joints.
  • Extreme pain
  • Bleeding profusely
  • Sudden inability
  • Walking at a slower pace

Causes

  • Joint Disease
  • Injury or Trauma
  • Infection
  • Cancer 
  • Object stuck in paw or foot
  • Cut on paw or foot
  • Hip or elbow dysplasia
  • Genetic disorders
  • Nerve damage

Treatment of lameness

  • For minor causes of lameness restricting your dog’s exercise, or complete rest for a few days is usually adequate.
  • For more serious causes (broken bones, slipped discs) orthopedic or neurological surgery is required.
  • Be sure to follow up regularly with your veterinarian about the status of your dog’s limping.