What happens if a puppy sprains its leg?
Expert Answer
After a sprain, a puppy may limp or walk on three legs, and may lie down to avoid moving due to pain. Soft-tissue injury causes swelling, bruising, and warmth.
Pain makes the puppy more restless and irritable, especially if the sore spot is touched.
Have a vet take X-rays to rule out fractures. For a simple sprain, apply cold compresses for three days to reduce swelling, then heat, and give pain and anti-inflammatory medicine as directed.
A puppy sprain needs rest, I'd limit running and jumping for a week or two and watch if he bears weight, a mild one heals with calm. But "sprain" can hide a fracture, so if he won't put the paw down or it swells, get an x-ray, don't just hope. Mine bounced back from a soft-tissue pull with restricted play, but the vet ruling out a break was the key step.