How long does it take for a dog's foot sprain to heal?

Watching your dog limp after a sudden twist or fall is enough to make any pet owner’s heart race. Those awkward steps, the way they favor one paw—you know something’s wrong, and you’re probably already wondering how long it’ll take for them to bounce back.​

A dog’s foot sprain, much like a human’s, depends on how bad the damage is. Mild sprains—where the ligaments are just stretched—usually start feeling better in about a week. You might notice less limping after a few days of rest, especially if you keep them from zooming around the yard or jumping on the couch.​

Moderate sprains, where ligaments have micro-tears, take longer. Expect 2 to 4 weeks of careful recovery here. Your vet might suggest a wrap or even a splint to keep the joint stable, and you’ll need to stick to short, slow walks—no roughhousing with other dogs during this time. It’s tough to say no when they give you that “let’s play” look, but pushing too hard can make it worse.​

Severe sprains, where ligaments are partially or fully torn, are another story. These can take 6 to 8 weeks, sometimes longer, to heal properly. In some cases, your vet might recommend physical therapy or anti-inflammatory meds to speed things along. And yes, that means keeping them on a strict rest schedule—even if they act like they’re fine after a few days. Dogs are pros at hiding discomfort, so don’t let their enthusiasm fool you.​

During recovery, it’s not just about letting time do its thing. You’ll need to keep an eye on the sprained area for signs of trouble: swelling that won’t go down, redness, or a bad smell could mean an infection, which needs immediate vet attention. Also, remember that many areas require leashes in public spaces, even during recovery. Letting a limping dog wander off-leash isn’t just risky for their healing—it might land you in hot water with local regulations.​

Your home setup matters too. Clear pathways of clutter so they don’t trip again, and avoid slippery floors that could strain the sprained foot. If you have stairs, you might need to carry them up and down for a bit—small breeds especially struggle with those when they’re hurt.​

It’s important to check in with your vet early, even if the limp seems minor. Some sprains can mask more serious issues like fractures, and missing that could lead to long-term problems. Plus, certain medications that work for humans—like ibuprofen—are toxic to dogs, so never self-prescribe. Always get the green light from a professional first.​

As the days pass, you’ll start to see progress. Maybe they put a little more weight on the paw during mealtime, or they’re willing to take a few extra steps on your walks. Celebrate those small wins—they mean your pup is on the right track.​

Recovery isn’t just physical, either. Dogs get bored and frustrated when they can’t run and play like usual. A puzzle toy or gentle belly rubs can go a long way in keeping their spirits up while their body heals.​

Before you know it, you’ll be chasing them around the park again, wondering how you ever worried so much. Until then, patience and care are your best tools.