Vet Approved Guide to Common Shoulder Injuries in Dogs: Signs, Treatment & Recovery (2025)🩺🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Shoulder injuries in dogs are more common than many owners realize—and if left untreated, they can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, or limited mobility. As a veterinarian, I often see pups limping, reluctant to play, or showing stiffness after exercise—classic signs of a shoulder strain or joint problem. 🩺🐾

This guide outlines the most frequent canine shoulder injuries, how to spot them, and how to support healing through rest, rehabilitation, and tools like Ask A Vet. 🧠

🔍 Signs of Shoulder Injury in Dogs

Shoulder problems typically affect the front leg and may present as:

• 🚶♂️ Limping (often intermittent at first)
• 🏋️♂️ Weight shifting to opposite limb
• 🪑 Difficulty rising or jumping
• 🛋️ Stiffness after rest
• 🗣️ Yelping or pulling away during shoulder handling

If symptoms last more than 48 hours or worsen, it’s time to consult your vet or use Ask A Vet for immediate guidance. 🩺

🦴 Common Types of Shoulder Injuries in Dogs

1. 🧠 Soft Tissue Strain or Sprain

• Affects muscles, ligaments, or tendons surrounding the shoulder joint
• Usually caused by jumping, twisting, or rough play
• Treated with rest, cold therapy, and light rehab

2. 🧬 Biceps Tendonitis

• Inflammation of the biceps brachii tendon in the shoulder
• Seen in athletic or working dogs
• May require anti-inflammatories, rehab, or surgery if severe

3. 🔩 Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)

• Developmental joint disease causes cartilage damage
• Often affects large-breed puppies (6–12 months old)
• Treated surgically or with joint-supportive care

4. 💥 Shoulder Luxation (Dislocation)

• Occurs from trauma or a congenital abnormality
• Requires immediate veterinary intervention

5. 🧠 Supraspinatus or Infraspinatus Injuries

• Involve deep rotator cuff muscles
• Common in agility or working dogs
• Can lead to muscle contracture if not treated early

📋 Diagnosing Shoulder Injuries

• 🩺 Physical exam (range of motion, pain points)
• 🧪 Imaging: X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI for detailed evaluation
• 🧠 Rule out spinal or elbow causes of forelimb lameness

Ask A Vet can help interpret diagnostic findings or recommend next steps post-clinic visit. 📱

⚕️ Treatment Options

Conservative Management:

• 🛏️ Crate rest or restricted activity for 2–6 weeks
• 🧊 Ice therapy during first 72 hours (15 min intervals)
• 💊 Anti-inflammatory medication
• 🧘 Gentle physiotherapy or passive range-of-motion exercises

Advanced Therapy:

• 🏊 Hydrotherapy or underwater treadmill
• 🔬 Laser therapy or acupuncture
• 💉 Joint injections (PRP or stem cell in severe cases)

Surgical Repair:

Used for severe OCD, torn tendons, or chronic instability. Post-surgical care includes crate rest and progressive rehab. 🦴

🧬 Breeds Prone to Shoulder Injuries

• 💥 Labrador Retrievers (high energy + weight)
• 🏃 Border Collies (agility and sudden stops)
• 🐕 German Shepherds (large frame, active)
• 🧸 Poodles and Goldendoodles (high jumpers)

Monitor these breeds closely during and after high-impact play. 🕵️♂️

📅 Recovery Timeline (General)

• Minor sprain: 2–4 weeks
• Biceps tendonitis: 6–12 weeks
• Surgery (OCD/luxation): 8–16 weeks with rehab

Always confirm timelines with your vet or use Ask A Vet for virtual recovery planning. 🩺

✅ Final Thoughts: Early Action = Long-Term Mobility

Shoulder injuries are painful, but with early diagnosis and proper care, most dogs make a full recovery. Know the signs, get professional guidance, and support your pup’s healing journey with a mix of rest, rehab, and gentle enrichment. 🐶❤️

Quick Recap:

• 🦴 Watch for limping, stiffness, or shoulder pain
• 🩺 Get imaging and diagnosis ASAP
• 🛏️ Rest, anti-inflammatories, and controlled activity are key
• 📱 Use Ask A Vet for support during recovery
  

Need help now? Visit AskAVet.com. 🐾