My Dog Is Limping — What Could It Be?
Why Is My Dog Limping? — Causes and When to See a Vet
Not All Limping Is the Same
Luna comes home limping after her walk. There are many possible causes — anything from a thorn in her paw to a torn cruciate ligament. The good news: not every limp is an emergency. But you should know how to recognize when it's time to see a vet right away.
The Most Common Causes of Limping
Paw injuries: The most common cause of sudden limping. Thorns, glass splinters, torn paw pads, trapped toes — check the paw closely first. The cause is often visible to the naked eye.
Sprains and bruises: After rough play or an awkward landing, a joint or muscle can be mildly injured. Mild limping that improves after a day's rest is usually harmless.
Cruciate ligament tear: One of the most common orthopedic emergencies in dogs. Typical signs: the dog suddenly stops putting weight on the leg and holds it bent. Often happens after a sudden change of direction. Surgery is almost always necessary.
Hip dysplasia (HD): Mainly affects larger breeds — German Shepherds, Labradors, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers. The dog limps, especially after getting up or after exercise. Morning stiffness is a telltale sign.
Elbow dysplasia (ED): Similar to HD, but in the front legs. Common in Bernese Mountain Dogs, German Shepherds, and Retrievers.
Arthritis: A common cause of chronic limping in older dogs — around 20% of dogs over a year old are affected. Gradual onset, improves after warming up.
When You Need to See a Vet Immediately
Act immediately if you see: severe pain (whimpering, trembling), swelling or deformity in the leg, wounds with heavy bleeding, complete refusal to bear weight on the leg, numbness or signs of paralysis.
See a vet soon too (within 24 hours): limping that doesn't improve after a day's rest, or gets worse. Swelling that's increasing. Fever alongside limping.
You can wait and watch if: the limp is mild and improves after warming up. There's no visible pain. You removed a small foreign object and the dog immediately moves better.
What Does Treatment Cost — and Is Insurance Worth It?
An orthopedic exam including X-rays costs €150 to €300. A cruciate ligament tear with TPLO surgery runs €2,000 to €4,000. Hip dysplasia surgery can cost €3,000 to €6,000 per hip. If you have good health insurance, you don't have to make this decision based on your budget. And if you're ever unsure about Luna's limping: through the Lassie app, you can ask a vet via telemedicine immediately — with no waiting period.
