Dogs do not have ankles on their front legs, just as you don’t have them on your arms. Other types of sprains can occur in the front legs, and they are treated similarly.
Running, jumping, and making sharp and quick turns can put undue stress on a joint. While not all dogs are equally energetic, their joints can also be put under more stress than they can handle. A sprain can also be the result of slipping, falling, stepping in a hole, or something as seemingly minor as jumping on or off the couch. Any of these can cause your dog to end up with a sprain.
A dog with a sprain will often try not to put weight on the affected leg. [5] X Expert Source Natalie Punt, DVMVeterinarian Expert Interview. 15 February 2022. Depending on the severity, the dog may carry the leg in a raised position, not using it at all. Be aware of other common reasons for rear leg lameness. [6] X Expert Source Natalie Punt, DVMVeterinarian Expert Interview. 15 February 2022. Injuries to the hip, knee, or foot area can also cause a dog to limp. Take your dog to the vet to confirm that they have a sprained ankle. A vet can use radiographs to make sure there are no fractures or dislocations. They’ll also try to rule out other possible causes of the injury. [7] X Expert Source Natalie Punt, DVMVeterinarian Expert Interview. 15 February 2022.
You may also notice your dog regularly licking the area.
A change in appetite, usually apparent in decreased food consumption A change in activity level, such as sleeping more or a reluctance to exercise Vocalization related to the injury, such as barking, grunting, or whining when the ankle is touched or moved
As needed, you can take your dog outside on a short leash. Keep the walk short and slow. [11] X Research source Return the dog to a confined area as soon as possible. Restrict the dog’s activity for a full 48 hours to give the injury enough time to heal.
Wrap the ice pack in a towel to protect the dog’s skin from any excessive cold. Repeated as needed, waiting at least two hours between applications. This will help prevent irritating the skin and reducing circulation, which can delay healing. You can use a bag of frozen vegetables, such as peas, for an ice pack that you can mold around the ankle. This will allow you to evenly and effectively apply the ice to all of the damaged tissue. [13] X Research source
Heat will improve circulation and help to loosen tightness in the muscles while having a soothing effect. To apply heat, use a damp towel warmed in the dryer or microwave. Be sure the towel isn’t hot enough to burn the skin. Apply heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, remove it for at least an hour before applying again. [15] X Research source Don’t use a heat treatment immediately after exercise.
If the leg is not better after 48 hours or if it is getting worse, consult with your veterinarian. [16] X Research source If you don’t see improvement, it’s possible that your dog may just need more rest, along with some veterinarian-prescribed medication. Sometimes, there can also be an injury in another area that is delaying recovery. If there is a more serious injury, such as a dislocation or small fracture, your vet can do a full examination and X-rays if needed.
