What is the cause of a dog's lameness?

📞 Orthopedics appointment in Vantaa: 010 739 9130

Dog lameness is one of the most common reasons to go to the vet. Limping can be a slight “impurity” in movement or complete caress of the foot. But how do you know if it's a minor sprain or an injury requiring surgery?

In this article we will go over the most common causes of lameness and their symptoms.

1. Accidents and soft tissue injuries

In active dogs, it hurts and happens.

• Sensory wounds and foreign objects: Always check the soles of the paws first. A stick, broken glass, or sensor wound is a common cause of sudden lameness.
• Muscle strains: Slipping or rough play can stretch the muscle. The symptom is often lameness after rest, which wears off in motion.
• Fracture of the clavicle: A broken nail is very painful and often requires veterinary intervention.

2. Diseases and injuries of the joints

If the lameness is prolonged or recurs, the cause is often found in the joints.

• Cruciate ligament injury: The most common cause of hind leg lameness. The dog may “jump” over the step or look out for the leg altogether.
• Osteoarthritis: Progressive disease that causes stiffness, especially after rest. Common in older dogs, but also possible in adolescents (e.g. as a result of dysplasia).
• Patellar luxation (dislocation of the patella): A common ailment of small breeds, in which the dog jumps for a moment on three legs and then continues normally.

3. Growth disorders (young dogs)

If a growing puppy is limping, the matter must be taken seriously.

• Panosteite: “Growing pains” in long tubules.
• OCD and growth disorders of the elbow joint: Often require arthroscopic surgery to avoid permanent damage to the joint.

When for examinations?

At the Veterinary Hospital Sacrum (Vantaa), we have a digital x-ray and experienced orthopedists for the diagnosis of lameness.

Make an appointment if:

• The lameness is intense.
• The lameness has lasted more than 2 days despite rest.
• The limp recurs under exertion.

📞 Make an appointment for a lameness examination: 010 739 9130