- Home
- Dog Conditions
- Dogs Leg Swollen With Fluid
Dogs Leg Swollen With Fluid
Written By Kevin Hughes
Published: 04/23/2016Updated: 05/06/2025
Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.
Why is my dog’s leg swollen, with fluid?
If your dog’s leg has swollen up, it raises an immediate red flag that something is wrong. There can be many causes of a dog’s leg swelling – including temporary health issues that can be resolved, such as a fever or a sprain, and longer-term problems like arthritis and osteosarcoma. We’ve covered the subject of swollen and hot legs in dogs here.
In this guide, we’re going to focus on a more specific health condition in dogs – fluid retention and tissue swelling due to collection of lymph. Sounds complicated? Well, let’s start explaining…
What is Fluid Retention and Tissue Swelling Due to Collection of Lymph?
Similar to the human body, the lymphatic system is like the body’s cleansing system in dogs. It contains the lymph nodes and lymph vessels and contains lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that help guard the body against any infections or inflammations. When the blood circulates, this complex process includes the collection and transfer of a clear fluid, called lymph.
Lymph is taken from the body’s tissues and then returned back into the blood via lymphatic vessels. When there is an abnormality in the lymph flow, the fluid collects and swelling occurs. This is when you’ll see a fluid buildup in your dog’s leg. Lymphedema is the common term for this disorder.
A dog limb swelling with fluid accumulation can be the result of lymph nodes (that filter the fluid) or lymph vessels developing atypically. It can also be the result of an underlying condition that has caused an abnormality in the lymphatic system. Underlying disorders can be tumors, surgery, inflammation, or any other disorder that causes the lymph vessels to become blocked, thus inhibiting proper flow.
Lymph is taken from the body’s tissues and then returned back into the blood via lymphatic vessels. When there is an abnormality in the lymph flow, the fluid collects and swelling occurs. This is when you’ll see a fluid buildup in your dog’s leg. Lymphedema is the common term for this disorder.
A dog limb swelling with fluid accumulation can be the result of lymph nodes (that filter the fluid) or lymph vessels developing atypically. It can also be the result of an underlying condition that has caused an abnormality in the lymphatic system. Underlying disorders can be tumors, surgery, inflammation, or any other disorder that causes the lymph vessels to become blocked, thus inhibiting proper flow.
Lymphedema is the swelling of various tissues in the dog’s body due to fluid retention within the tissues. This is caused by an abnormality in the lymphatic system.
Symptoms of fluid buildup in dog’s leg
So, what are the symptoms of a dog’s limb swelling with fluid accumulation? In cases of a fluid buildup in a dog’s leg, the symptoms may be visible and instantly obvious, or might show in other, more subtle, ways.
When the lymph fluid is obstructed, it collects in the bodily tissues. As this occurs, swelling that is noticeable on the outside of the body will be a concern to any pet parent. If your dog is showing any of the following signs, you should schedule a visit to your vet.
Symptoms of a dog's leg swollen with fluid can include:
When the lymph fluid is obstructed, it collects in the bodily tissues. As this occurs, swelling that is noticeable on the outside of the body will be a concern to any pet parent. If your dog is showing any of the following signs, you should schedule a visit to your vet.
Symptoms of a dog's leg swollen with fluid can include:
- Swelling of the feet and legs
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Swelling of the chest
- Any outer extremities becoming swollen (tail or ears)
- Lameness/limping
- Malaise
- Lethargy
- Skin discoloration/hyperpigmentation
Types of Lymphedema
There are different types of disorders similar to, or secondary to, lymphedema that your veterinarian will check for during the examination and testing while your dog’s leg is swollen with fluid.
A few of these types may also be considered a differential diagnosis that the veterinarian will have to rule out before making a definitive diagnosis of this disorder. Types include:
A few of these types may also be considered a differential diagnosis that the veterinarian will have to rule out before making a definitive diagnosis of this disorder. Types include:
- Congenital lymphedema
- Primary lymphedema
- Intestinal lymphedema
- Intestinal lymphangiectasia
- Inflammatory edema
- Arteriovenous fistula
- Neoplastic infiltration
- Hypoproteinemia
- Hepatic failure
Causes of Fluid Retention and Tissue Swelling Due to Collection of Lymph in Dogs
What might be the possible causes of a dog leg swelling?
There are a few different common causes of a dog limb swelling with fluid accumulation, or Lymphedema. Some studies have shown that this disorder is completely idiopathic (primary lymphedema), but it could also be a secondary condition caused by other illnesses or injuries.
Causes can include trauma, including a result of radiation therapy, Neoplasia, infections, heart issues and cancer. Clearly, many of these are serious health conditions that require treatment so it may be that the symptom of a swollen leg in a dog alerts a pet parent to a wider issue.
It’s thought that some breeds of dog are more predisposed to Lymphedema as a primary condition. These breeds include Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever, Great Dane, Borzoi, Poodle and German Shepherd.
Causes can include trauma, including a result of radiation therapy, Neoplasia, infections, heart issues and cancer. Clearly, many of these are serious health conditions that require treatment so it may be that the symptom of a swollen leg in a dog alerts a pet parent to a wider issue.
It’s thought that some breeds of dog are more predisposed to Lymphedema as a primary condition. These breeds include Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever, Great Dane, Borzoi, Poodle and German Shepherd.
Diagnosing fluid buildup in a dog’s leg
The golden rule when it comes to a suspected health condition with our pets – don’t self-diagnose and guess at the issue. If your dog’s leg is swollen with fluid, make an appointment with your veterinarian, who is best placed to conduct the necessary tests and examinations to diagnose the likely causes of any dog leg swelling-related issues.
To reach a diagnosis, the veterinarian will ask questions about the symptoms your dog is displaying and any underlying conditions your pet may have. The vet will then conduct a complete examination and recommend a urinalysis and blood tests.
The veterinarian may gently press on the swollen area to see how it responds to this; he or she will be looking for ‘spongy’ feeling tissue and looking for the area which is pressed to keep an indention for a short time before returning to normal.
If your veterinarian suspects your dog has lymphedema, either primary or secondary, he or she may take a sample of the swollen tissue and test it to be sure it is lymph fluid in the affected tissue.
The veterinarian may also choose to perform a lymphangiography, which is a dye test, similar to a heart catheterization, where an imaging source can allow the veterinarian to watch the flow of the colored dye throughout the lymphatic system.
The veterinarian may also choose to perform a lymphangiography, which is a dye test, similar to a heart catheterization, where an imaging source can allow the veterinarian to watch the flow of the colored dye throughout the lymphatic system.
Treating a dog’s leg that’s swollen with fluid
Your vet will recommend a course of swollen dog leg treatment, based around what is most effective to combat the underlying health condition that’s been diagnosed. Fluid retention and tissue swelling in canines may, sometimes, subside naturally but more often, treatment for Lymphedema and other closely-related conditions will be needed. That treatment also depends on whether the swelling is caused by a primary or secondary source.
Treatment options may include:
Treatment options may include:
Compression
The affected tissue areas can be wrapped in a compression bandage to help reduce the swelling. The veterinarian will demonstrate how to wrap the areas and will show you the amount of pressure that needs to be applied. Heating pads on a low setting and lymphatic massage may also be options to help your pet.
Change in Diet
Since lymphedema can only be treated rather than completely cured, the veterinarian may recommend a special diet for your companion. A diet that is healthy can boost the immune system to allow the lymphatic system to do its job more effectively.
Medication
Medication to reduce the swelling or an antibiotic may also be prescribed by your veterinarian. Both may be used to help calm the swelling and the fluid buildup in your dog’s leg.
Worried about the cost of treating your pet's symptoms?
Pet Insurance covers the cost of many common pet health conditions. Prepare for the unexpected by getting a quote from top pet insurance providers.
Will my dog recover from a swollen leg and fluid buildup?
Recovery from issues relating to fluid retention and tissue swelling due to collection of lymph in dogs depends heavily on the cause, and whether there are other underlying disorders, too.
For example, if your dog has been diagnosed with generalized lymphedema, the prognosis is considered ‘guarded’ and must be watched to see if your dog will go into remission.
For example, if your dog has been diagnosed with generalized lymphedema, the prognosis is considered ‘guarded’ and must be watched to see if your dog will go into remission.
Since there are many possible causes of secondary lymphedema, recovery depends on the other conditions and how severe your dog’s lymphatic system has been affected. Your veterinarian will give you advice and instructions on how to care for your dog during this time.
Whatever the cause, fluid retention and tissue swelling due to collection of lymph could be a symptom of a serious medical condition. To avoid high vet care expenses, secure pet health insurance today. The sooner you insure your pet, the more protection you’ll have from unexpected vet costs.
Whatever the cause, fluid retention and tissue swelling due to collection of lymph could be a symptom of a serious medical condition. To avoid high vet care expenses, secure pet health insurance today. The sooner you insure your pet, the more protection you’ll have from unexpected vet costs.
Fluid Retention and Tissue Swelling Due to Collection of Lymph Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Border Collie
Seven Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Weakness Minor
In the last week my dog has developed a large, hard swelling on his ankle. Does not appear to be painful but has some difficulty jumping into the car. Walks and runs normally
Sept. 28, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
As dogs age, they can develop bone and joint problems. From your description, it would be best to have your dog seen by a veterinarian. They may want to take an xray and see what is causing that lump, and get treatment for him.
I hope that all goes well for him!
Oct. 7, 2020
Was this question and answer helpful?
French Bulldog
Thirteen Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Swollen Joints
My dog has a swollen front leg. it is twice the size of her other leg. She is not in pain but she does limp alittle
Sept. 26, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
Since I cannot see her or see what might be going on, It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine your pet, see what might be going on, and get treatment for them if needed.
Oct. 17, 2020
Was this question and answer helpful?
Pomeranian
Eleven Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Swelling
I have an 11 year old pomeranian mix that is starting to gain weight and show signs of age. A few things I have noticed lately.. He doesn't like to sit anymore, when he does sit his legs sit straight out in front of him like a humans legs would. When he lays down his less are flush with the floor behind him like a frog. He has swelling in his lower left back near his hip but doesn't yelp when I apply pressure.. He just recently started losing hair down his spine as well.
July 9, 2020
Answered by Dr. Ellen M. DVM
0 Recommendations
Hi there, thank you for your question. I'm sorry to hear that your dog is having some mobility issues!
Without examining you dog, it is very hard to know for sure what might be going on. What you describe could be consistent with hip arthritis or knee arthritis. It could also be due to something going on in the spine such as inter-vertebral disc disease. It's hard to know whether the swelling is related - it could be a mass of some sort.
I recommend having your dog examined by your veterinarian in the next few days. They can help determine where his source of discomfort is coming from, and whether the hip swelling is something to worry about. You can also ask them about pain medication and joint supplements to help with possible arthritis.
Good luck! I hope your pup starts feeling better soon!
July 9, 2020
Was this question and answer helpful?
German Shepherd
Eight Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Fluid Retention Feet Swelling
What can you give a dog that has swelling / fluid in their legs and feet?
July 9, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. It would be best to find the cause of the swelling, and treat that, as the swelling is likely a sign of something else. Without seeing him, it isn't possible to say what might be the problem, unfortunately, and having him seen by a veterinarian would be best.
I hope that he is okay.
July 9, 2020
Was this question and answer helpful?
Doberman Pinscher
Rusty
7 Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Leaking And Swollen
My 7 year old Doberman had surgery on July 18th his stomach,intestine,and spleen were all turned he is still in the hospital today July 26th since Monday he has been leaking fluid from his incision they put compound in the stomach to make sure it wasn’t leaking,ok so it wasn’t on Tuesday he had a ct scan to check everything spleen,kidneys,lungs urenary etc.no leaks were found, his hind legs,hips,scrodome is very swollen and the leaking continues,he is a pet specialist hospital
July 26, 2018
1 Recommendations
From your description it sounds like Rusty is having a build up of abdominal fluid (ascites), there are many different causes for the build of of fluid in the abdomen which may involve liver and splenic disorders but may also include low blood albumin, heart failure among other causes; without examining Rusty I cannot really give you any specific indication of a cause but it seems that your Veterinarian and the Specialist Center have ruled a lot out already. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
July 27, 2018
Was this question and answer helpful?
Bluetick Coonhound
Cookie
2 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Limping Diarrhea Swollen Leg
Hi Dr. Turner! My dog recently broke her leg over a month ago. She had a plate and screws put in and it will be a month on wed since her surgery. After her surgery the swelling went down and then started to swell up again within two weeks time. Took her back to the vet and they took an X-ray and everything looked fine. They don't know what is causing the swelling but there is also blood in her stool and it was diarrhea. I have been giving her rice and chicken and her stool is a little more solid but her leg is still swollen. She just keeps licking her leg. Why? What could it be?
Pit bull mix
Trinity
10 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Swelling
Lameness
Edema
I came home during lunch yesterday and everything was fine. Ate her food and was walking around. When I got home from work I noticed something was wrong. She usually runs up to me when I get home and I got nothing. I noticed her back left leg was very swollen from the elbow up. We have a bee hive in the back so I thought it might’ve been a sting but I still took her to the vet. They checked her out. Everything was fine. They gave her a diphenhydramine shot and then took her back to check for a stinger. When they came back they said they found pitting edema on her elbow and that when they listened closely to her heart, noticed she had a heart murmur as well. They said if she hasn’t been coughing and losing weight it should be fine. It’s a minor murmur. Gave me 20mg lasix tablets to bring down the edema. They told me if the swelling goes up and if she starts limping worse to bring her back immediately. It hasn’t gotten worse, but it hasn’t gotten better. She’s only had two doses of the lasix since it was prescribed, but now she’s not eating. I don’t know what to do or what is going on.
Rottweiler
buster
5 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Lethargy
Hi Dr turner ,
I am a CVT and had a quick question about a recent case I had experienced . We had removed a firm growth over the 3rd- 4th digit on the LH limb of a 5yr old MC rottweiler. The owners declined sending out the histopath do to cost . Post sx we placed a bandage and everything went well . About 3 days later the limb became swollen . We removed the bandage and started the pet on pred 20mg. 2 days later the limb continue to swell and has not subsided . I told the owner we need to send to histopath ASAP, but are still declining . I know that growths on the feet are usually bad news and can metastasize quickly . But just wondering what your thoughts were ? if there's anything you would do . post sx was given rimadyl 100mg , trazadone 100mg , gabapentin 300mg , cefalexin 500mg . On 9/6 after rimadyl was discontinued and started on pred 20mg.
Thanks,
Nicole
Pit bull
Cornbread
11 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Whining
Whining, Cant Move
my dog had a severe heat stroke the other day due to negligence from my sister-in-law. He's been at the vet for about 3 days and they were giving him fluids to keep him hydrated. They had sent him home last night and his legs and stomach are swollen. He seems to be in a lot of pain from it and can't move. How long will it take for the swelling to go down or absorb?
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Shakti
15 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Swollen Tit, Hard, Hot For Touch
Good day. My dog within past few months developed swollen tit that became hot red and feels hard inside. You can’t really move it around. And in past week her back leg became swollen like she has edema. Doctor has an appointment available in a week. Should I rush her to emergency or it can wait. It’s hard for her to walk but she otherwise fine. Eats and drinks as normal. Being 15 years old what can be a recommendation and what should I expect from a vets visit? Thank you so much!!!! I am so afraid she will die waiting for an appointment. Please help. I have a 7 year old daughter and can’t imagine explaining this yet to her. We are not ready for our dog to die.
