Why Your Dog’s Limp Should Never Be Ignored
When a dog starts limping, many owners assume it’s just a minor sprain from an energetic play session or a rough jump off the sofa. Sometimes, that’s true. But limping is rarely “just nothing.” It’s your dog’s way of telling you something is wrong, and ignoring it can lead to long-term pain or more serious conditions. Common Causes of Limping in Dogs A limp can come from many different sources: Injuries – sprains, cuts, or broken nails. Joint issues – arthritis, hip dysplasia, or ligament tears. Hidden pain – problems with paw pads, claws, or even spine-related conditions. What’s tricky is that not all causes are obvious at first glance. Dogs are incredibly stoic and often continue moving despite discomfort. Paw Problems You Might Overlook One of the most overlooked reasons behind limping is a paw condition. Dogs walk on all kinds of surfaces—gravel, concrete, hot pavement—so their paws are under constant pressure. Sometimes the culprit isn’t an external injury but s...