Dogs are known for their fierce loyalty and energetic demeanors. Unfortunately, when left unsupervised or introduced to new environments, their curious nature could get the better of them, resulting in minor injuries, sometimes without us knowing. While it’s impossible to be completely aware of your dog’s actions and whereabouts at all times, it is your responsibility to understand their needs and ensure they’re given the proper care.
Limb-related injuries, in particular, are common occurrences for indoor and active dogs, as they can get these from doing everyday activities and playing. There are many possible causes of leg-related injuries, including blunt trauma, diseases, genetics, and aggressive play.
Determining the severity of an injury can be difficult or potentially dangerous for both dogs and owners. Knowing and recognizing the signs and symptoms between breaks, sprains, and other injuries is important in order to know what to do next in situations when they occur.
Dog Leg Sprain vs. Break: Sprained Legs
Leg sprains in dogs often result when a canine overextends their leg muscles. This type of injury typically happens during high-impact activities such as jumping, running, and playing with other animals. Still, they can also occur when your dog trips, slips, or falls due to imbalance.
Sprains involve an injury to the ligament that connects the bones. For dogs, the most common area for a sprain to occur would be in their wrists, knees, or any joints that they often move.
Signs of a Sprained Leg in Dogs
Limping and Lameness
If you notice your pet limping, hesitant to bear weight, or are less active than normal, they may be suffering from a sprained leg. The injury is usually more noticeable when your dog places pressure on the sprained leg or ligament, resulting in an imbalance in their working limbs.
Another sign is an unusual gait when walking or running. If your pet struggles to be mobile, we recommend visiting a trusted professional or veterinarian to get them checked out as soon as possible.
Lethargy
Your dog may seem more lethargic or be unwilling to move if they are suffering from a sprained leg. If you notice that your pet has refrained from their day-to-day activities, including eating, or has taken to hiding or staying in secluded areas in your home, you should get them checked as soon as you can.
Self-Soothing
Dogs are able to self-soothe by licking injured or affected areas of their body. While it’s a method for them to alleviate pain and anxiety, the act may worsen their condition or infect any wounds sustained.
If you see your dog licking or nibbling at the same spot on their body excessively, we suggest gently checking for inflamed skin or wounds. If you can’t determine the cause of their self-soothing, you can consult a professional on possible courses of action.
Dog Leg Sprain vs. Break: Fractured Legs
Sprained legs in dogs often result from damage to the soft tissue, while fractures happen due to damage to the bone itself. Any excessive force against the bone can lead to a break or fracture. Moreover, the most common fractures in dogs occur in their hind legs; typically the femur.
Signs of a Fractured Leg in Dogs
Bruising
If you notice visible bruising, swelling, or discoloration in your dog’s skin, this might point to a possible fracture. It’s understandably more difficult to spot bruising on dogs with longer coats, but you can still feel for them by gently running your hands over your pet’s body, taking note of areas that are more sensitive to the touch.
Avoid squeezing or placing too much pressure on your dog’s body if you suspect they might have an injury or wound. Your dog may exhibit self-soothing acts such as licking, or they may squirm, howl, or cry if you’ve made contact with the affected area.
Open Wounds
There are two types of fractures to look out for. The more obvious type is the open or compound fracture, which involves the bone jutting out from the limb and a wound forming around it. As this is a more severe sign, we recommend taking your pet to the veterinarian immediately.
The other type is a transverse fracture, a closed fracture in which the crack forms straight across or diagonally along the bone. While you won’t be able to see this fully without first taking your pet to a clinic, bruising could indicate a closed fracture.
Limping and Lameness
Similar to sprains, limping and lameness are signs of a fracture in your dog’s legs. Depending on the nature of the fracture, your pet may be able to bear some weight on their broken limb, though it’s best to keep them off it.
Sudden Change in Behavior
A change in your dog’s general temperament may indicate serious injuries, wounds, or a fractured bone. Even the friendliest and most pleasant pets can exhibit aggression when faced with intense pain, discomfort, or anxiety.
If your dog has taken to baring their teeth or reacting differently when presented with an opportunity to hug or play together, this may be a manifestation of fear due to their injury.
Getting Your Dog Diagnosed
It can be challenging to deal with your dog’s injury alone. However, you can try alleviating some of their pain and discomfort at home until you’re able to take them to a veterinarian. For example, you can apply an ice pack to the injured area for 15 minutes twice a day to help improve their blood circulation and reduce swelling.
If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, it’s best to seek veterinary care for your pet. At the veterinary clinic, they’ll be able to conduct a proper diagnosis to determine the severity of the injury so they can formulate a treatment plan.
Treatments for Dog Leg Sprain vs. Break
The treatment will vary depending on whether your dog has a sprain or a fracture. Breaks or fractures often require surgical treatment. Severe sprains may also need surgery if the ligament is torn.
The usual treatment for injuries below the knee and elbow is to give the dog any form of external stabilization, such as a cast or splint. Your pet may also be given some pain-relieving medication and anti-inflammatories.
Understanding the Difference
Knowing that your dog is suffering from a sprain or fracture can be difficult. As pet owners, we want to ensure our pets aren’t in pain and can have the best possible life. Equipping ourselves with the proper knowledge is the first step in making sure we know how to advocate for our dogs.
To learn more about keeping your dog safe and healthy, check out the TPLOInfo blog today!
