Check her pads for any cuts or abrasions as well as her toenails on that foot to see if any are torn or broken. Look for swelling in the foot, hock, and knee. She may have just be suffering from a muscle strain but you are right it could be something more serious. Like an ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Tear in the knee. It seems to happen more often in larger breeds and when they are participating in an activity where they take off from stand still at fast speeds. Sometimes it can be a partial tear and rest is all that is needed before they are using the leg again, but the area does seem to remain weak and a tear could happen again quite easily. A complete tear will require surgery. Without treatment the dog will not be able to walk normally and eventually arthritis will occur. Please take a look at this site for more information:
http://www.thewagway.com/Behviour%20Tip%20Sheets/knee_injuries_in_dogs.htm
I would recommend rest until she is seen by her veterinarian. Unless you feel she is in severe pain it would be best to avoid any pain medications at this time to keep her from trying to use it. I would support her with a towel under he tummy when going outside for potty breaks. Basically, no running, no jumping, stairs, and NO FETCHING (sorry pup) to see if she starts to improve.
Good Luck
Theresa
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