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Rest is the first step to treating a sprain. To ensure your dog gets enough rest, you will need to restrict your dog's activity. You should keep the dog inside or in a small area where it is unable to run or play. The less active the dog is, the better. As needed, you can take your dog outside on a short leash. Keep the walk short and slow. Return the dog to a confined area as soon as possible. Restrict the dog's activity for a full 48 hours to give the injury enough time to heal. To reduce swelling, help with pain, and aid in the healing process, apply an ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes. Wrap the ice pack in a towel to protect the dog's skin from any excessive cold. Repeated as needed, waiting at least two hours between applications. This will help prevent irritating the skin and reducing circulation, which can delay healing. You can use a bag of frozen vegetables, such as peas, for an ice pack that you can mold around the ankle. This will allow you to evenly and effectively apply the ice to all of the damaged tissue. If your dog has an older, chronic, or recurrent injury it is not recommended to apply an ice pack. At this stage of an injury it is best to apply moist heat. Heat will improve circulation and help to loosen tightness in the muscles while having a soothing effect. To apply heat, use a damp towel warmed in the dryer or microwave. Be sure the towel isn't hot enough to burn the skin. Apply heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, remove it for at least an hour before applying again. Don't use a heat treatment immediately after exercise. During the 48 hour rest period you should watch closely for signs that the injury is improving or worsening. With rest and treatment, most ankle sprains will be back to normal fairly quickly. If the leg is not better after 48 hours or if it is getting worse, consult with your veterinarian. If you don't see improvement, it's possible that your dog may just need more rest, along with some veterinarian-prescribed medication. Sometimes, there can also be an injury in another area that is delaying recovery. If there is a more serious injury, such as a dislocation or small fracture, your vet can do a full examination and X-rays if needed.
Make your dog rest. Apply an ice pack. Apply heat. Watch for signs of improvement or worsening.