Why is my dog not putting weight on one paw? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog is not putting weight on one paw, it usually means that paw is painful or uncomfortable. Common reasons include a thorn or bit of debris, a sore pad, a split nail, a minor sprain, or something caught between the toes. It’s sensible to check the paw carefully, but you won’t always be able to tell the cause straight away.
Things To Check
1. See whether it started suddenly after a walk, play, grooming or a jump, as that can give a useful clue.
2. Look at the paw pad, nails and between the toes for cuts, swelling, redness, discharge, scabs or anything stuck there.
3. Compare it with the other paws to spot heat, puffiness or a clear change in shape.
4. Check whether the nail is cracked, torn, too long or painful when touched.
5. Watch how your dog stands and walks, and note whether they are touching the paw down at all or avoiding it completely.
6. Think about recent activity on rough ground, gravel, wet grass, hot surfaces or muddy areas.
7. Look for licking, chewing or repeated shaking of the paw, which can suggest irritation or discomfort.
Common Causes
The most common causes are small injuries such as a cut pad, a thorn, a cracked nail or something trapped between the toes. These can make a dog reluctant to bear weight, even if the problem looks minor at first.
Sprains and other soft tissue strains can also happen after running, jumping or slipping. Arthritis or a pre-existing joint issue may sometimes make one paw look like the problem, especially if your dog is shifting weight away from a painful leg.
Less commonly, a bite, an infected nail bed, or a more significant injury may be involved. If the paw looks very swollen, the pain seems severe, or the problem is not improving, it needs proper veterinary attention.
What To Do
Keep your dog calm and stop them running, jumping or going on long walks until you know more. If they will let you, gently inspect the paw in good light and remove any loose debris only if it comes away easily and safely.
If there is a small superficial cut or dirty area, you can gently clean it with plain lukewarm water and dry it carefully afterwards. Keep an eye on whether they begin to place weight on it again, or whether the paw becomes more swollen, hot or painful.
If your dog is licking the paw a lot, it may help to prevent further irritation while you monitor it. If the issue is still there after a short rest, or you’re unsure what you’re seeing, contact your vet for advice.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet promptly if your dog won’t put any weight on the paw, seems very painful, or the paw is badly swollen, bleeding, hot, or visibly damaged. You should also get advice if there’s a torn nail, pus, a bad smell, or the problem hasn’t improved within a day or two of rest.
If your dog is suddenly unable to walk properly, or you suspect a deeper injury, it’s best not to wait.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s paw is dirty, sore-looking or prone to picking up debris, a pet care routine can make checking and cleaning a bit easier at home.
Related Questions
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Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.