Dogs that work hard sometimes have lameness issues. We do too, when we overexert our bodies.
Right shoulder of Roxy, compare to other side
Roxy here, is a fabulous lab mix, and man, can she jump. Her owners were concerned about whether she was having pain, because they noticed changes in her play and exercise. The two images of her shoulder do show differences. When I pressed her shoulders, she responded that both of them were tender.
Roxy’s exercise will come down a notch, while she recovers.
Roxy's left shoulder, more heat than the other side. She is also sore here to the touch.
The key to keeping them healthy, is to find the balance point. Every other day of exercise is a good place to start. If they are limping, rest 3 days, and see if there is improvement. Take them to the water and let them play there for 20 minutes. There are many ways. After my young dog tumbled and held up his hind leg now and again, I changed the exercise quite a bit. I don’t want lame animals.