Dog's Leg Suddenly Swollen, Hot and Painful, and He Won't Eat

A leg that is suddenly swollen and hot, with limping and loss of appetite, needs a vet visit today rather than home treatment. Possible causes include an infection or abscess (sometimes from a small bite or puncture you can't see), a joint infection, an insect or snake bite, an injury such as a fracture, or, less often, a tumor.

Don't give human pain relievers or anti-inflammatories, as these can be dangerous for dogs. Until he's seen, keep him quiet and confined. If your vet can't see him today, or he becomes lethargic, the swelling spreads quickly or he seems in pain, take him to an emergency vet right away.

See dog knee problems.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.