PET157 / Pet-health guides
Why is my dog limping?
Understand common causes, urgent signs, conventional care and emerging research.
Record the onset and pattern
Tell your veterinarian which leg appears affected, whether the change was sudden and whether there was a fall, unusual activity or previous injury. A short video of ordinary walking may help explain an intermittent change.
Prepare for examination
Limping alone does not identify the cause. An appointment may include gait and physical assessment, with further investigations determined by the findings. Do not use an arthritis or recovery guide to decide the diagnosis yourself.
When a routine enquiry is insufficient
A dog that cannot bear weight, has significant distress or has suffered trauma needs prompt local veterinary attention. PET157 enquiries and forthcoming telehealth are not emergency services.
When to use local care
If your pet is in distress, cannot bear weight, has suffered trauma or is deteriorating rapidly, contact a local veterinary clinic. A public information enquiry cannot assess an emergency.
Sources and editorial status
Prepared by PET157 from the references below. This page has not been independently reviewed by a veterinarian. Content updated 2026-10-13.