Answer

There are a few things that could make a wound to cause pain and lameness in a dog for weeks or months. First, the injury could have damaged soft tissue, such as ligaments or tendons, which would lead to chronic pain. Second, the cut may have become infected. Third, a joint may be damaged, either by the initial injury or by infection. Finally, there could be some damage to the bonedcalled a microfracturedthat may not have shown up on an X ray.

It could also be that your dog is limping due to a condition unrelated to the cut, such as arthritis or a sprain or other injury. The limp may just have happened to occur soon after the cut.All of these problems need veterinary attention, as they can all become chronic, painful conditions. Your veterinarian can perform a physical exam, take X rays, and perform other diagnostic procedures to find out what’s causing your dog’s pain. He may also prescribe pain medication to help your dog walk.