My puppy is limping after playing. Should I worry?

By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM

The short answer

Growing puppies have soft growth plates near the ends of their bones, so a hard landing can hurt more than it would in a grown dog. A limp that's gone within a day after rough play is a watch. One that lasts more than a day, or comes with swelling or crying, is a call.

Why it happens

The growth plates near the ends of a puppy's bones stay softer than bone until he's done growing, so a bad landing can bruise them more easily.

Which door?

WATCHIf it's gone within a day.
CALL TODAYIt lasts more than a day, or there's swelling or crying.

When to call

Tick what fits and see which door you're at.

CALL TODAYLasts more than a day, or comes with swelling or crying
GO NOWWon't put the leg down, a leg at a strange angle, or limping after a fall, a drop or being stepped on

Your door: WATCHWATCH

Nothing ticked and he's bright, playful, eating and drinking? Keep an eye on him, jot down what you see, and call in the daytime if it doesn't settle.

Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.

GO NOW means: Head to your vet, if they're open and can see him right away, or to the nearest emergency clinic. Call on the way so they're ready for you.

Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.

Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.

Is this an emergency?

General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.