Arthritis In Dogs Weak Back Legs

A veterinarian explains four possible causes of sudden weakness in your dog s back legs and what you must do.

Arthritis in dogs weak back legs.

When dogs become weak in their back legs gradually over time it s mostly linked to genetics and this usually happens in older dogs. Small dogs typically live longer and large dogs tend to display deterioration in their legs earlier. Relay all symptoms you have noticed in your dog including changes in appetite and behavior and the history. The majority of a dog s old age symptoms which include arthritis and hip dysplasia are treatable.

However larger breeds of dog are also particularly vulnerable to these conditions. Additionally dogs that suffer from arthritis and joint problems tend to have weak rear legs. Both of my wiener dogs at different times were shaky and had weak hind legs one of my dogs could not jump on the couch could not climb stairs and would lay under the bed shaking i thought maybe she had really bad arthritis or a bad back injury i gave her calcium pills in wet cat food and she got better for a little while so later i gave my dog. Diagnosis of back leg weakness in dogs.

And the gingerlead support and rehab harness is a fantastic option for dogs with arthritis hip dysplasia and other mobility problems particularly with their back legs. Hind leg weakness in senior or old dogs canine degenerative myelopathy also referred to as dm is the most common reason why older dogs develop progressive weakness in their back legs. Jules benson bvsc and vp of veterinary services at petplan pet insurance. Which dogs suffer most from weak back legs.

As dogs age muscle strain and age related degeneration may cause them to have weak rear legs. The hips are not the only cause of hind leg weakness. According to the arthritis foundation one in five dogs suffers from canine arthritis. Older dogs are more likely to have conditions such as arthritis which can cause weakness in their back legs.

Make sure to choose one that s appropriate for your dog s gender as there are female and male versions of this harness. If you have noticed signs of weakness in your dog s back legs take him into the clinic to be checked as many of the causes can be progressive. When your dog s hind legs suddenly go weak there could be any number of causes says veterinarian dr. Hind leg weakness in particular is usually due to arthritis hip dysplasia or loss of muscle.

Labrador dogs are more at risk for fibrocartilaginous embolisms. If you want to massage a dog with weak rear legs follow some simple massage techniques and other tips and tricks for strengthening a dog s hind legs.