Why is my dog limping after playing?

If you’ve ever noticed your dog limping after a fun play session, you’re not alone. Many pet owners find themselves concerned when their normally energetic companion suddenly favors one leg or begins to move more cautiously.

Limping after play can be a sign of several different issues, ranging from minor muscle strain to more serious orthopedic conditions that require veterinary attention.

Understanding the possible causes can help you decide when to monitor at home and when it's time to consult a professional.

After vigorous activity, dogs may experience temporary soreness or muscle fatigue, especially if they aren’t used to such intense play or exercise. Just like humans who might feel stiff after an unusually active day, dogs can develop soft tissue soreness. In younger dogs, especially large breeds that are still growing, the bones and joints may be more susceptible to strain, and overexertion can lead to pain and limping even without a traumatic injury. Minor strains or sprains may cause mild limping that resolves on its own within a day or two with rest.

However, if the limp doesn’t go away or worsens, it could be a sign of something more serious. One of the most common causes of limping in dogs after activity is a partial or complete tear of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), which is the canine equivalent of the ACL in humans.

These injuries can occur during sharp turns, jumps, or rough play and often cause the dog to suddenly avoid putting weight on the affected leg. Joint instability, swelling, and pain can follow, and surgical intervention is frequently required to restore proper function.

Other possible causes include luxating patella, particularly in small breeds, where the kneecap slips out of place temporarily, or osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), a developmental joint disease more often seen in young large-breed dogs. In some cases, the problem may not be in the limb itself but rather in the spine. Intervertebral disc disease or lumbosacral pain can cause referred lameness, making it seem like a limb is affected when the actual source is the back.

It’s also important to rule out trauma, such as cuts on the paw pad, foreign bodies like thorns or glass, or fractured nails, which can all occur during outdoor play. A quick inspection of the paw and leg can sometimes reveal these superficial causes.

If your dog continues to limp for more than 24–48 hours, appears in pain, avoids using the leg altogether, or if the limp worsens with time, you should contact your veterinarian. Diagnostic tools like X-rays or orthopedic exams may be needed to determine the exact cause. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term damage and ensuring your dog stays active and happy.

References:

1. Worth, A. J., & Kersley, A. M. (2018). Cranial cruciate ligament disease in dogs. Veterinary Record, 182(15), 438-444.
   

2. Voss, K., & Montavon, P. M. (2013). Lameness in dogs: Diagnosis and treatment. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 43(5), 823-848.

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.