Dog limping on back leg: When to worry

If your dog is limping on one of their back legs, it's completely natural to feel worried. Limping is often a sign that something is wrong—whether it's a minor strain or a more serious orthopedic condition.

Dogs may start limping suddenly or gradually, and while it’s tempting to wait and see if it improves on its own, certain signs indicate the need for prompt veterinary attention.

A limp in a dog’s hind leg can stem from many possible causes, including trauma, ligament injuries, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, joint inflammation, or even neurologic problems. One of the most common orthopedic causes is a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture, the canine equivalent of the ACL in humans.

This injury often happens during physical activity, and the dog may cry out, refuse to bear weight, or show instability in the knee.

Hip dysplasia is another frequent culprit, especially in large breeds. It’s a developmental condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit correctly, leading to progressive arthritis. Dogs with hip dysplasia might show stiffness when getting up, decreased activity, and a “bunny-hopping” gait.

In smaller breeds, patellar luxation is more common—it occurs when the kneecap shifts out of place, sometimes causing intermittent limping or skipping steps. Less frequent causes of hind limb lameness include fractures, dislocations, or even bone tumors, which usually develop more gradually and are sometimes accompanied by swelling or pain on palpation.

Regardless of the cause, any limping that lasts more than 24–48 hours, or is accompanied by other signs like pain, swelling, or reluctance to walk, should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. Your vet may recommend physical examination, radiographs (X-rays), orthopedic tests, or even advanced imaging like CT or MRI if needed.

Treatment options vary widely and can include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, surgery, or rehabilitation therapy. In the meantime, it’s best to keep your dog rested and avoid excessive movement until a proper diagnosis is made. Ignoring limping can lead to worsening conditions or chronic pain, so if you’re in doubt, it’s always better to act sooner rather than later.

References:

Cook, J. L., et al. (2010). Clinical update on canine cruciate ligament disease. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, 46(5), 350–360.Mostafa, A. A., Griffon, D. J. (2013). Evaluation of risk factors for luxating patella in dogs. Canadian Veterinary Journal, 54(3), 241–245.

About the autor

Felipe Garofallo is a veterinarian in Brazil, specialized in orthopedic and neurosurgical care for dogs and cats.

He is also the founder of Ortho for Pets – Veterinary Orthopedics and Specialties.