Limping all of a sudden

[Shianne Mack]

So my pup Forrest (2 years old) was running after a squirrel about a month and a half ago and hurt his front right leg. He would limp for like 10 minutes, and then he would be fine. I applied pressure to everywhere on his leg and examined his paw and he didn't have a reaction. I took him to the Vet and he said it was probably a little minor strain, and that I should rest him for a week and see if that helps. It did! He was back to normal, then today while running, he all of a sudden whimpered really loud and came limping over to me. It's his same paw (the front right one), but this time he seems to have more of a limp. He has been limping for about 5 hours now and doesn't put much pressure on it. I tried applying pressure everywhere again, and he doesn't seemed bothered. I am wondering if I should take him to the vet again or just let him rest. I am confused as to why this keeps happening though... anyone have something similar happen to their pup?

UPDATE! 

So I was examining him further and when I touch or try to rotate his leg near his shoulder, he whines a little. So i'm thinking its a shoulder injury or some sort?

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I would definitely take him back to the vet and perhaps have some tests done. 

[Stella]

I would see your vet. Shoulder injuries are difficult to diagnose, depending on affordability I would want X-rays of elbow and shoulder to rule out orthopaedic conditions.. Once that is done find yourself a good rehab professional and go for an assessment - you are looking for someone with credentials CCRT or CCRP if you are in the USA. They will do full musculoskeletal assessment (they are usually better at diagnosing soft tissue injuries than general practice vets), and should be able to advise you on apppropriate return to activity guidelines, as well as give you home exercises to do.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Being such a young dog, I would want to have as thorough an assessment and treatment as possible - by a specialist.

[Shianne Mack]

So I took him the vet and after an x-ray and some tests, we found out that he pulled a ligament in his shoulder. He pulled it a little the first time, which is why he was limping a little, and then he pulled it even more this time. So he was given instructions to rest for 2-3 weeks and also some medic to help. He is on the 3rd day of resting and the medicine and doing A LOT better already! :) 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I'm glad you took him to the vet. I hope he heals quickly. 

[Linda, Charlie Brown and Beau]

Just saw your discussion Shianne.  I am so glad they could diagnose the problem and with rest he will probably good as new.  Keep us posted on his progress.  BTW - your Forest is a real cutie!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I'm so glad that you took him. With a diagnosis you know it was an injury that needs lots of rest to heal, but will heal.  :-}