Why is my dog limping after being bitten by a tick?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

If your dog is limping after a tick bite, the most common reason is local irritation around the bite site, especially if the skin is sore, itchy or a bit swollen. It can also be a coincidence, with the limp caused by something else such as a minor strain, a thorn, or a small paw injury.

Most tick bites only cause mild, short-lived discomfort, but it’s worth checking the area carefully and watching how your dog moves over the next day or two.

Things To Check

1. Look closely at the bite site for redness, swelling, heat, scabbing or broken skin.

2. Check whether the tick is still attached, or whether part of it may have been left behind.

3. Feel the leg and nearby area gently to see if your dog flinches or seems sore in one specific spot.

4. Check the paws, pads and between the toes for cuts, thorns, grass seeds or a nail issue.

5. Notice whether the limp is constant or only happens after exercise, jumping or getting up.

6. Watch for other signs such as licking, chewing, stiffness, reduced activity or a change in appetite.

7. Make a note of whether the limp is getting better, staying the same or worsening.

Common Causes

The most common cause is local skin irritation where the tick attached. Even after the tick is removed, the area can stay a bit tender for a short time.

Another common possibility is that the limp is unrelated to the tick bite and is actually due to a minor sprain, bruise, paw injury or something stuck in the foot.

Less commonly, the bite area may become more inflamed or infected, which can make a dog seem sore or reluctant to put weight on the leg.

In some cases, a limp after a tick bite may be linked to a wider health issue rather than the bite itself, which is why ongoing or worsening signs should be taken seriously.

What To Do

If the tick is still attached, remove it carefully using a proper tick removal tool if you have one, following the instructions that came with it. Try not to squeeze the body of the tick.

Keep the area clean and dry, and discourage licking or chewing if your dog keeps bothering the spot.

Let your dog rest for a day or so and avoid rough exercise while you watch for improvement.

If the limp is mild, compare both front or back legs, depending on where the bite is, and check the paw thoroughly as well as the skin around the tick bite.

If the limp does not improve quickly, or you’re not sure the tick bite is the real cause, speak to your vet for advice.

When To Contact A Vet

Contact your vet if the limp is severe, your dog won’t bear weight, the area becomes more swollen or painful, or the skin looks infected. It’s also sensible to get advice if the limp lasts more than a day or two, gets worse, or your dog seems unwell in any other way.

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