What to do if your dog is limping on its back leg.

A dog limping on its back leg can be caused by a range of issues, from a minor injury to a more serious health condition, therefore, understanding potential causes and knowing when to seek veterinary care is crucial to ensuring your pet’s ongoing health and comfort.

Honnas Veterinary is a vet clinic in Austin, TX. We are open 7-days a week from 9am to 7pm, and we will examine your pet for free in the first instance. Call us now or book a free appointment online.

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Common Causes of Dog Limping on Its Back Leg

Dogs’ back legs are complex. With multiple joints and a direct connection to the hips, this large area can get easily injured and/or become a hotbed for health issues such as arthritis and tumors, for example. 

Before you diagnose your dog at home, check out this list of common reasons that a dog might be limping on its back leg, and how you can tell if one of these is what’s causing your dog’s discomfort.

• Injuries: Dogs can injure themselves during play, exercise, or even simple activities. Their back legs particularly can suffer trauma or injuries such as sprains, strains, or fractures, all of which would result in limping. How do you know if this is why your dog is limping? Try to recall if you saw them get hurt recently.

• Arthritis: Arthritis causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain and stiffness. With so many joints in this area, including the hips, this is a common cause of older dogs limping on their back legs. If you are wondering if this could be why your dog is limping, think about their age.

• Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint and is common in larger dog breeds. Again, due to the hips connection with the back legs, it can cause limping, pain, and difficulty moving. This would have to be diagnosed by a veterinarian.

• Luxating Patella: Commonly referred to as a “trick knee,” this occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, causing intermittent limping. You’ll know if this is what’s affecting your dog if it happens often. You will want to see a vet about how to manage it.

• Torn Ligaments: The cruciate ligament in a dog’s knee can tear through physical activity, and it can be very painful for them. If your dog is in distress and limping on its back leg, see a vet immediately. It could be a torn ligament, and that will require surgery.

• Nerve Damage: Conditions affecting the nervous system can lead to limping and difficulty walking. It will be hard for you to diagnose this yourself, so if it doesn’t seem like any other reason, bring your dog into see a vet.

• Infections: Infections in the bones, joints, or skin can cause pain and limping. Again, as the back leg area is so large, there are more opportunities for infection to occur for multiple reasons. If this is the case, your dog may also have other symptoms and should see a vet for treatment and to get well again.

• Tumors: Tumors affecting the bones or joints can result in chronic limping and pain, and with so many joints and bones in the back legs, this can be a cause. As with infections, if your dog has a tumor, there may be other symptoms including a lump. Book a visit to your local veterinarian immediately if you suspect that this is the case.

No budget? No problem! 

At Honnas Veterinary we have a range of payment options for veterinary services, and the exam is always free. Don’t try to figure this out alone, let us help you diagnose your pet’s issue at no cost to you, then work with you on a treatment and payment plan; your pet needs you to help them. Please do not be discouraged to support your pet due to finances, solutions are available.

Home Treatments for Limping Dogs

If your dog is limping, there are some steps you can take at home to help alleviate their discomfort, but please remember, if there are signs of serious injury or health matters, please take your dog to the vet.

1. Rest and Restriction: If you suspect your dog is limping as a result of a mild injury, try to limit their activity for a few days to allow them to heal. Ensure they have a comfortable place to rest and avoid stimulation such as visitors, toys and distracting sounds.
2. Compresses: 
   • Cold: If your dog is limping immediately after an incident, apply a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
   • Warm: After the initial swelling has gone down (usually after 48 hours), warm compresses can help relieve stiffness. If symptoms persist after this, see a veterinarian without delay.
3. Pain Relief: While treating your dog for a mild injury at home (especially one that they can recover from without surgery), over-the-counter pain relief for animals, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help you to manage their pain and keep them calm. This is not a long term solution, but can be used in the early stages, while you learn if your dog needs further treatment.
4. Physical Therapy: Gentle massages and range-of-motion exercises can help improve mobility and reduce discomfort. This can be ongoing to support your dog’s healing from an injury or recovery from surgery.
5. Weight Management: Please keep in mind that dogs also limp when they are having trouble carrying too much weight, even on a very mild injury. In this case, their weight is the issue, so keeping them healthy can reduce the strain on their joints and alleviate pain.

Dog Limping: When to Contact Your Veterinarian Checklist

As we have discussed, if you have noticed your dog limping on its back leg, it’s crucial to monitor their condition and know when it’s time to seek professional veterinary care. If your dog is displaying any of the following, contact your local veterinarian immediately:

1. Persistent Limping: If your dog continues to limp for more than 24-48 hours.
2. Severe Pain: If your dog is in severe pain, crying out, or unable to put any weight on the leg.
3. Visible Injuries: If you notice cuts, swelling, or any visible injuries.
4. Other Symptoms: If your dog shows other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior.
5. Intermittent Limping: If your dog limps intermittently or shows signs of a recurring issue, it could indicate an underlying condition.

An Animal Hospital in Austin, TX 

Established in December 2023 by Dr Cheri Honnas, Honnas Veterinary is a state-of-the-art vet clinic and animal hospital in Austin, TX. Open 7-days a week from 9am to 7pm, Honnas Veterinary manages all illness and injury cases, providing access to emergency vets. Honnas also offers pet dentistry and a pet wellness clinic including vaccinations, medications and spay and neuter services. Honnas Veterinary is an AHAA accredited veterinary clinic. Visit honnasvet.com.

Dog Limping Back Leg: Final Thoughts

Limping in the back leg can be caused by a variety of issues, and it’s important to address the problem promptly to ensure your dog’s comfort and health. While home treatments can provide temporary relief, consulting your veterinarian is essential for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. 

If you’re in Austin, TX, and your dog is limping, don’t hesitate to reach out to contact us for a free exam.

For more information on dog health and care, you can visit websites like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

Remember, your dog’s health and happiness are always a priority. If you have any concerns, it’s best to seek professional advice.