A practical guide to tell mild from serious — but when in doubt, always ask your vet.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual
Veterinary advice recommended today — For most cases, follow the home-care steps below and call your vet the same day if warning signs appear.
A mild limp after exercise often settles with rest. A limp that does not improve in a day, or comes with pain, swelling or a wound, needs a vet check.
Contact your vet if any of these apply:
Check the paw for cuts or objects. Rest your dog and keep walks short and on-lead. Do not give human painkillers — many are toxic to dogs.
Your vet may examine the leg, take X-rays and check for joint, ligament or bone problems.
Rest for a day and check the paw for cuts or objects. If the limp continues beyond 24 hours, gets worse, or your pet refuses to bear weight, see a vet.
Never give pets human painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol — they can be fatal. Only use medication prescribed by your vet.
Same symptom in Cat: see Cat Limping — causes and home care can differ by species.
This page is educational triage information, not a diagnosis. Pets vary — when in doubt, ask your vet. In an emergency, contact your local emergency clinic or pet poison hotline directly.