TL;DR: If your dog is holding a paw up, it is a sign of pain or injury that usually requires a veterinary visit within 24 hours, or immediately if there is a visible deformity or severe swelling.
What does it mean if my dog is holding their paw up and not putting weight on it?
When a dog holds a paw off the ground, it is a sign of discomfort, pain, or an inability to bear weight. This behavior, clinically referred to as non-weight-bearing lameness, suggests the dog is protecting the limb. Causes can include:
- Simple issues like a thorn or a torn nail
- Joint dislocations
- Fractured bones
- Ruptured ligaments
When is my dog holding their paw up considered an emergency?
The urgency level for a dog holding a paw up is typically Medium, meaning they should be seen within 24 hours. You should upgrade this to an emergency and seek immediate care if you notice:
- A visible deformity in the limb
- Excessive or rapid swelling
- Deep lacerations
- An inability to stand on the other three legs
How can sending a photo or video help my veterinarian triage my dog's injury?
Providing your veterinarian with a clear photo or short video can be incredibly helpful for remote triage in the following ways:
- A clear photo of the paw pad or the specific joint can help a professional identify visible foreign bodies, stings, or localized inflammation.
- A video showing your dog's attempt to walk allows the vet to assess the severity of the gait abnormality.
- Visuals help the veterinary team determine how quickly your pet needs to be brought into the clinic.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Lameness can be classified as weight-bearing or non-weight-bearing. In forelimb lameness, the head is elevated during weight bearing on the sound limb, and the stride is shortened on the affected side. In hindlimb lameness, the head is dropped during weight bearing on the affected limb. Clinical examination is critical for diagnosis, and limbs should be assessed from distal to proximal, noting any swelling, pain, instability, crepitation, reduced range of motion, or muscle atrophy. Serial examinations before and after exercise may be necessary for subtle cases. Diagnostic imaging, including radiography, ultrasonography, CT, and MRI, can be helpful. For fractious animals, sedation with agents such as butorphanol and acepromazine, propofol, or medetomidine may be required to facilitate palpation, radiography, and arthrocentesis.
Chapter: Orthopedics, Neurology, Anesthesia
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1193)