Dogs are naturally energetic and playful animals, making them especially prone to accidental injuries and sprains, particularly in their legs. Is your dog unable to put weight on a paw? Do you notice a limp when your dog moves around? If so, your companion may have suffered a sprain during an activity or playful romp.
Sprains are one of the most common injuries seen by veterinarians, so it’s crucial for every dog owner to know how to spot the signs of a sprain in their dog.
This article dives into what a sprain is in dogs, the tell-tale symptoms, and what steps to take if your dog has injured a limb.
What is a Sprain in Dogs?
Much like in humans, a sprain is a significant injury that impacts a joint, resulting from the stretching or tearing of a ligament—the tissue that holds the bones of a joint together. The severity of a dog’s sprain depends on how much the ligament is stretched or whether it’s been partially or fully torn.
In some instances, a ligament rupture may be accompanied by a minor bone fracture, where a piece of bone is pulled away.
The most common sprain in dogs affects the knee, often involving tears in the cruciate ligaments of the knee. But sprains can strike any limb joint—ankles, toes, tarsus, or wrists are all vulnerable.
Causes of Sprains in Dogs
Most canine sprains are trauma-based. Just like in people, they often occur during everyday accidents: a sprint across the backyard, an intense play session, or just a misstep during a stroll. Sprains are especially prevalent in athletic or hunting dogs. Furthermore, being overweight or obese increases the risk of spraining a limb.
On occasion, sprains may be caused by degenerative changes. As dogs age, their ligaments can become less resilient, meaning senior dogs are more likely to suffer from sprains simply due to natural wear and tear.
Finally, genetics can play a role in your dog’s likelihood of injury. Certain breeds—like Border Collies—are prone to carpal hyperextension, which increases their risk of specific types of sprains.
Symptoms of a Sprain in Dogs
Sprains in dogs can produce a variety of symptoms, though unfortunately, these aren’t always unique to sprains alone. The main warning signs to look for include:
- Sudden, intense pain;
- A joint that appears red, swollen, and warm;
- Trouble walking and noticeable limping;
- Abnormal gait or posture;
- Refusal to stand or inability to place the paw on the ground when attempting to stand;
- Whining or vocalizations of discomfort;
- Bruising or visible hematoma.
Often, the pain from a sprain doesn’t appear immediately after the injury. Your dog might continue playing or running, only for the discomfort to hit once they’ve cooled down and the adrenaline wears off.
If you suspect your dog has sprained a limb, it’s always best to seek prompt veterinary attention.
What To Do If Your Dog Has a Sprain
Before heading to the veterinarian, there are steps you can take to help comfort your dog and prevent further injury:
- Immobilize your dog: The very first step when you suspect a sprain is to keep your dog still. Enforce rest and limit walks to brief bathroom breaks. The idea is to prevent further ligament or joint damage. If you know how, using a splint to stabilize the joint can also help.
- Control pain and swelling: Use a frozen pack or ice cubes wrapped in a cloth, and gently apply it to the injured area. Cold compresses help reduce swelling and pain due to their vasoconstrictive effects. Avoid placing ice directly on your dog’s skin; always use a barrier like a towel.
- See a veterinarian: If swelling, pain, or limping hasn’t improved within 48 hours, a vet visit is essential. Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatories and pain relief, and might recommend a splint or bandage to further immobilize the joint.
Important: Never give your dog human medications. Many human drugs can be toxic—or even deadly—for dogs.
Can a Dog’s Sprain Heal?
With proper care, a dog’s sprain can heal, but be aware that ligaments may lose some of their original flexibility and strength. Unfortunately, once affected, that limb might be more prone to future sprains.
This is why it’s so important to take seemingly minor incidents seriously and prioritize your dog’s recovery.
