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A limp is your dog’s way of saying something hurts or does not work properly. Sometimes it is a thorn in a paw that you can fix in a minute; sometimes it is a torn ligament or arthritis that needs a vet. Here is how to tell the difference. This guide is general information and does not replace an exam. If your dog will not put any weight on a leg, is in obvious pain, or has a leg at an odd angle, call your vet or an emergency clinic now.
Sudden limp vs gradual limp
| Sudden (acute) limp | Gradual (chronic) limp | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical causes | Paw injury, torn nail, sprain, insect sting, ligament tear, fracture | Arthritis, hip or elbow dysplasia, kneecap problems, some bone diseases |
| What it looks like | Appears out of nowhere, often after play or a walk | Builds over weeks or months, often worse after rest |
| What to do | Check the paw; see a vet if it lasts more than a day or is severe | Book a vet visit; chronic pain is very treatable |
Common causes of limping in dogs
Paw and nail problems
Cuts, splinters, burrs, broken or overgrown nails, insect stings and infections between the toes are among the most common, and easiest to fix, causes.
Sprains and strains
Overdoing it at the park can strain muscles or sprain joints. Mild cases usually improve within a few days of rest.
Cruciate ligament injury
A tear of the cranial cruciate ligament (similar to the ACL in people) is a very common cause of back-leg limping, especially in medium and large dogs.
Kneecap problems (luxating patella)
Common in small breeds: the kneecap slips out of place, causing a skipping step on a back leg.
Arthritis
The most common cause of limping in older dogs. Stiffness is typically worse after rest and improves as the dog warms up. See our dog arthritis guide.
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Developmental joint problems in larger breeds that can cause limping from a young age. See signs of hip dysplasia.
Other causes
Tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease (which can cause a limp that shifts between legs), growth-related bone inflammation in young large-breed dogs, spinal problems and, more rarely, bone tumors in older large dogs. These are reasons not to ignore a limp that does not go away.
How to check your dog at home
- Stay calm and gentle; even friendly dogs can snap when hurting.
- Look at each paw: between the toes, the pads and the nails.
- Feel the leg gently from paw to shoulder or hip for heat, swelling or tender spots.
- Watch your dog walk on a non-slippery surface and note which leg they favor.
- Take a short video; it helps your vet a lot.
When to see a vet right away
- Will not put any weight on the leg
- Leg hanging at an odd angle, or a suspected fracture
- Heavy bleeding or a deep wound
- Sudden weakness or dragging of both back legs
- Severe pain: crying, panting, trembling, snapping when touched
- Limping with fever, lethargy or loss of appetite
- Swelling that is hot or growing fast
If the limp is mild and your dog is otherwise fine, rest them for 24 to 48 hours with only short leash walks. If it is not clearly improving, book a vet appointment.
What not to do
- Do not give human pain medication; many are toxic to dogs.
- Do not let your dog run or jump while limping.
- Do not ignore a limp that keeps coming back.
Related guides
Last reviewed: November 2026. Prices and specifications change; check the retailer before you buy.