Accepted Answer

Hello, Nancy. Thanks for writing in. The signs you are describing sounds like a soft tissue injury. Usually they will limp on it but still bear weight. The signs usually improve with signs. An infection or fracture would usually cause them to not bear weight on the limb at all. Rarely, you may have a developmental growth abnormality. You see them more commonly in large breed dogs, but they are possible in any dog. Smaller dogs will more likely have an angular limb deformity, where the long bones curve in or out more. It may put more stress on the joints. I would have your vet do a full orthopedic exam on the limb. Depending on what they find, they may recommend x-rays. Strict rest for 7-10 days and anti-inflammatory medication would be conservative treatment. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Hope this helps.

Expert:	Texas Veterinarian
Pos. Feedback:	99.6 %
Accepts:
Answered:	10/17/2009

Dog Veterinarian

7 years of clinical veterinary medicine and 17 years experience caring for household pets.