Young Boxer Barely Using a Back Leg

A young dog who can barely walk on a back leg needs a vet visit soon. Sprains happen, but in a boxer a torn cruciate ligament in the knee is a common cause of sudden back-leg lameness, and paw injuries, a slipped kneecap or a hip problem are also possible.

Until she's seen, keep her rested on short leash walks only, check her paw for cuts or anything stuck, and keep her off stairs and furniture. Please don't give human pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol); they can seriously harm dogs, and only your vet can prescribe a safe option. If she won't use the leg at all or is in obvious pain, go today.

See dog limping and torn ACL in dogs.

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