Why are my Boxers back legs giving out
What To Do When Dogs Back Legs Give Out
[ad_1]Dogs are known for their boundless energy and enthusiasm, so it can be quite alarming when their back legs suddenly give out. This can happen for a variety of reasons, from simple muscle fatigue to more serious health issues. As a responsible pet owner, its important to know what to do when your furry friend is experiencing this problem.
There are several steps you can take when your dogs back legs give out. The first thing to do is to remain calm and assess the situation. Check for any signs of injury or distress, and try to determine if your dog is in pain. If your dog is able to stand up on their own, gently help them to a comfortable spot where they can rest. If they are unable to stand, you may need to carefully lift them and transport them to a veterinarian for further evaluation.
In some cases, your dogs back legs may give out due to something as simple as muscle fatigue or overexertion. In these situations, its important to give your dog plenty of rest and allow them to recover naturally. Make sure they have access to fresh water and a comfortable place to rest, and avoid any strenuous activity until they are feeling better.
However, if your dogs back legs give out suddenly and without warning, it could be a sign of a more serious health issue. This could include issues such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, spinal problems, or even neurological disorders. In these cases, its crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
To gain further insight into this topic, lets explore 7 interesting trends related to what to do when dogs back legs give out:
1. Physical Therapy for Dogs: With the rise in popularity of physical therapy for pets, many veterinarians are now offering specialized rehabilitation programs to help dogs regain strength and mobility in their back legs.
2. Alternative Treatments: Some pet owners are turning to alternative treatments such as acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and chiropractic care to help alleviate their dogs back leg issues.
3. Mobility Aids: As technology advances, there are now a variety of mobility aids available for dogs with mobility issues, such as wheelchairs, braces, and harnesses to support their back legs.
4. Nutritional Supplements: Many pet owners are incorporating nutritional supplements such as glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids into their dogs diet to help support joint health and reduce inflammation in the back legs.
5. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for dogs with back leg issues, as excess weight can put added strain on their joints and muscles. Many veterinarians are now emphasizing the importance of weight management in treating mobility issues in dogs.
6. Breed-Specific Concerns: Certain breeds are more prone to back leg issues, such as large breeds like German Shepherds and Labradors, as well as smaller breeds like Dachshunds. Its important for pet owners to be aware of breed-specific concerns and take proactive measures to prevent and address back leg issues.
7. Holistic Approaches: Some pet owners are exploring holistic approaches to treating their dogs back leg issues, such as incorporating natural remedies, herbal supplements, and essential oils into their pets care routine.
To delve deeper into this topic, lets hear from some professionals in the field:
A sudden onset of back leg weakness in dogs can be a sign of a serious health issue, such as a spinal injury or neurological disorder. Its important to seek immediate veterinary attention to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
Physical therapy can be incredibly beneficial for dogs with back leg issues, as it helps to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and alleviate pain. By working with a qualified rehabilitation specialist, pet owners can help their furry friends regain mobility and quality of life.
Nutritional supplements such as glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can play a key role in supporting joint health and reducing inflammation in dogs with back leg issues. By incorporating these supplements into their pets diet, pet owners can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Weight management is crucial for dogs with back leg issues, as excess weight can exacerbate joint pain and mobility issues. By maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise, pet owners can help their furry friends lead a healthier and more active life.
Now, lets address some common concerns and answers related to what to do when dogs back legs give out:
1. Concern: My dogs back legs seem weak and wobbly. What should I do?
Answer: Its important to assess the situation and determine if your dog is in pain. If they are able to stand, gently help them to a comfortable spot to rest. If they are unable to stand, seek immediate veterinary attention.
2. Concern: Could my dogs back leg issues be due to muscle fatigue?
Answer: Yes, muscle fatigue can cause temporary weakness in the back legs. Allow your dog to rest and recover naturally, and avoid any strenuous activity until they are feeling better.
3. Concern: What are some common health issues that can cause back leg weakness in dogs?
Answer: Health issues such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, spinal problems, and neurological disorders can all contribute to back leg weakness in dogs.
4. Concern: How can physical therapy help dogs with back leg issues?
Answer: Physical therapy can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and alleviate pain in dogs with back leg issues. Its important to work with a qualified rehabilitation specialist to create a customized treatment plan for your pet.
5. Concern: Are there alternative treatments available for dogs with back leg issues?
Answer: Yes, alternative treatments such as acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and chiropractic care can help alleviate pain and improve mobility in dogs with back leg issues.
6. Concern: Should I consider using mobility aids for my dog with back leg issues?
Answer: Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, braces, and harnesses can provide additional support for dogs with back leg issues. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your pet.
7. Concern: What role does weight management play in treating back leg issues in dogs?
Answer: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for dogs with back leg issues, as excess weight can put added strain on their joints and muscles. By promoting weight management through proper diet and exercise, pet owners can help their furry friends lead a healthier life.
8. Concern: Are there breed-specific concerns related to back leg issues in dogs?
Answer: Yes, certain breeds are more prone to back leg issues, such as large breeds like German Shepherds and Labradors, as well as smaller breeds like Dachshunds. Its important for pet owners to be aware of breed-specific concerns and take proactive measures to prevent and address back leg issues.
9. Concern: Can nutritional supplements help dogs with back leg issues?
Answer: Yes, nutritional supplements such as glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can support joint health and reduce inflammation in dogs with back leg issues. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best supplement for your pet.
10. Concern: How can holistic approaches benefit dogs with back leg issues?
Answer: Holistic approaches such as natural remedies, herbal supplements, and essential oils can help alleviate pain and improve mobility in dogs with back leg issues. Its important to work with a holistic veterinarian to create a customized treatment plan for your pet.
11. Concern: What should I do if my dogs back legs give out suddenly and without warning?
Answer: Seek immediate veterinary attention to determine the underlying cause of your dogs back leg issues. It could be a sign of a serious health issue that requires prompt treatment.
12. Concern: Can physical therapy help senior dogs with back leg issues?
Answer: Yes, physical therapy can be incredibly beneficial for senior dogs with back leg issues, as it helps improve mobility, reduce pain, and increase quality of life. Its important to work with a qualified rehabilitation specialist to create a customized treatment plan for your pet.
13. Concern: How can I prevent back leg issues in my dog?
Answer: To prevent back leg issues in your dog, its important to maintain a healthy weight, provide regular exercise, and incorporate joint-supporting supplements into their diet. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help detect any issues early on.
14. Concern: Can back leg issues in dogs be hereditary?
Answer: Yes, some back leg issues, such as hip dysplasia, can be hereditary in certain breeds. Its important to be aware of your dogs breed predispositions and take proactive measures to prevent and address any potential issues.
15. Concern: What should I do if my dogs back leg issues are not improving with treatment?
Answer: If your dogs back leg issues are not improving with treatment, its important to consult with your veterinarian to explore other treatment options, such as surgery or advanced therapies.
In conclusion, when your dogs back legs give out, its important to remain calm, assess the situation, and take appropriate action. Whether its providing rest and relaxation, seeking veterinary attention, or exploring alternative treatments, there are a variety of options available to help your furry friend regain mobility and quality of life. By staying informed, proactive, and attentive to your dogs needs, you can ensure they receive the care and support they need to overcome back leg issues and thrive.[ad_2]
Old Dogs Back Legs Collapsing: Solutions for Keeping Them on Their Feet
Editors Note: NaturalPetsHQ.com is supported by readers and may earn for purchases made through links in this post.
Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.
A number of things can cause older dogs back legs to collapse. Common causes of hind leg weakness in dogs include osteoarthritis, degenerative myelopathy, lumbosacral instability, and intervertebral disc disease.
In this article, we will explore the four primary causes of hind leg weakness in dogs. Additionally, we will provide practical tips on improving your dogs mobility, including making adjustments to your home environment, using assistive devices, and implementing exercises to strengthen their weak back legs.
KEY POINTS
- Back leg weakness is common in older dogs and often results from age-related changes.
- You can help your dog by treating their underlying diseases and using adaptive devices.
- Regular exercise and physical therapy can preserve a dogs remaining rear leg strength.
Symptoms Associated with an Old Dogs Back Legs Collapsing
Weakness and collapsing back legs may develop gradually in older dogs. Here are some of the most common symptoms to watch for:
- Back legs giving out and shaking/trembling
- Stumbling or tripping
- Drags back feet when walking
- Slower going up the stairs
- Jumping on furniture less
- Slow getting up from lying down
- Reluctant to run
- Reluctant to jump into the car
- Worn down toenails on back feet from scuffing
- Thigh/hip muscle atrophy
- Change in tail position
- Falling with back legs splayed out
- Back legs become spastic/ involuntary kicking
- Takes smaller steps with back feet
Top Causes of Back Leg Weakness in Dogs
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), is a condition that affects the joints in dogs. It occurs when the protective cartilage in the joints starts to break down, leading to pain and stiffness.
DJD can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary DJD is usually associated with aging and develops without a specific cause. Secondary DJD, on the other hand, is caused by factors like joint injuries, ligament damage, hip dysplasia, or joint incongruity. In both types, DJD involves a gradual process of joint damage, affecting the cartilage, bones, and ligaments.
Experts estimate that at least 25% of dogs will be diagnosed with osteoarthritis during their lifetime. (2,4).
Large-breed dogs tend to get OA at an earlier age than small-breed dogs. Hip dysplasia and other orthopedic problems predispose large dogs and occur more often in the following breeds:
- German Shepherd
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- Rottweiler
- Mastiff
Common symptoms include limping, stiffness, difficulty in getting up or lying down, hind leg weakness and reluctance to engage in physical activities. Arthritis management typically involves a combination of medication, weight management, exercise modification, and supportive therapies to alleviate pain and improve the dogs quality of life.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a nervous system abnormality that affects older dogs, causing progressive weakness in their back legs. Its an inherited condition passed down through generations (3), with certain breeds being more susceptible including
- German Shepherds
- Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis
- Standard Poodles
- Pugs
- Collies
- Boxers
DM shares similarities with Lou Gehrigs disease in humans. (1) The problem is more likely to occur in dogs aged 8 years and older.
Initially, dog owners may notice occasional dragging of the back feet, which worsens over time and eventually leads to an inability to walk. Other early symptoms of DM in dogs include
- Difficulty jumping
- Collapsing back legs
- Stumbling
- Legs splaying out
- Slipping
- Crossing over of rear feet
- Worn-down toenails
- Foot abrasions from scuffing
Fortunately, DM is not associated with pain, and most dogs do not appear distressed in the initial stages.
DM symptoms are similar to those seen in dogs with osteoarthritis, IVDD, or inflammatory diseases of the nervous system. Careful evaluation and thorough testing are necessary to accurately identify the cause.
Lumbosacral Instability
Lumbosacral instability, also known as cauda equina syndrome or lumbosacral stenosis, is a problem that affects the space between a dogs last vertebrae and sacrum. The lumbosacral (LS) region is located in the lower back, just in front of the prominent pelvic bones.
Instability in the LS spine can result in the pinching of nerves exiting the spine in the area. This pressure on nerves leads to the symptoms seen in dogs with LS instability:
- Leg weakness
- Pain when tail and legs are touched
- Urinary and fecal incontinence
- Decreased muscle tone in the hind legs and tail
- Reduced sensation in the tail
Some dog breeds are more prone to developing lumbosacral disease. These include:
- Airedale
- Boxer
- German Shepherds
- Golden Retriever
- Great Dane
- Labrador Retriever
My Experience with Lumbosacral Disease
One of my dogs has suffered from LS disease for over five years. She has stretches of time where she is quite comfortable thanks to nutritional supplements, regular moderate exercise, NSAIDs and pain medicines. Every couple of years she has a bad flare of pain and it can take months for her to return to normal.
I try to keep her from jumping and running since those activities cause her pain the next day. Shes a healthy dog in every other way, its just something we have to manage.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a condition that commonly affects dogs and involves the deterioration of the discs between the bones in their spine. These discs, which act as cushions, can degenerate over time, leading to the compression of spinal nerves.
IVDD can cause back pain and various neurological symptoms in dogs, such as limb weakness and even paralysis in the advanced stages of the disease. The condition is more frequently observed in certain dog breeds, including
- American Cocker Spaniel
- Bassett Hound
- Beagle
- Corgi
- Dachshund
- German Shepherd
- Shih Tzu
Home Care Tips for Dogs with Weak Back Legs
If your senior dog is experiencing hind leg weakness, there are several ways you can improve their quality of life. Here are some ideas that my clients and I have found helpful
- Adaptive furnishings such as carpet runners on slick floors
- Braces, socks and booties
- Plastic nail caps
- Dog wheelchairs
- Harnesses with handles so you can help support their weight
- Rear leg protectors
- Re-usable pants/diapers for incontinent dogs
Carpet Runners
Dogs with weak legs often find it challenging to stand and walk on slippery wood and tile surfaces. Many older dogs end up struggling, with their back legs splayed out, in an attempt to gain traction.
One simple solution is to install affordable carpet runners throughout your house. Place them in areas where your dog frequently walks. You can find carpet runners sold by the yard in rolls at home improvement stores.
I love these carpet runners from Amazon because they come in different colors and sizes and have a non-slip backing.
Braces, Socks & Booties
A few of my clients have experimented with back leg braces to offer mechanical support for their dogs. Unfortunately, most people find braces difficult to fit so they are neither too loose nor so tight that they cause injury to the dog.
Due to these challenges, many people prefer using soft socks or booties to improve their dogs foot traction. These present the same problems: theyre too loose and fall off or theyre too tight and cut off circulation to the foot.
Be very cautious using any device applied to your dogs feet or legs. Make sure it is comfortable and not tight enough to restrict circulation. It is important to remove these devices daily to make sure the foot or leg is clean and healthy underneath it.
Plastic Toenail Caps
Consider using these soft plastic caps for your dogs toenails to enhance their grip on smooth floors. However, there are a couple of challenges to keep in mind. Firstly, some dogs may resist having their toes handled, which can make applying the caps a bit tricky. Secondly, there is a possibility that the caps may come off earlier than anticipated.
You will find paw grip products that are applied directly to the dogs paw pads. These tend to be a challenge to apply to a dogs sensitive feet and may wear off quickly.
Dog Wheelchairs
Some of my clients have had great experiences with wheeled carts like the ones made by Walkin Wheels. Dog wheelchairs are made to support a dogs rear legs so they can walk normally with their front legs.
Most dogs adapt well to these and seem perfectly happy to zoom around with the help of their wheels!
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Other Devices to Help Dogs with Weak Hind Legs
A drag bag is a dog mobility assistance device for indoor use. It allows a dog with weak rear limbs to pull their body with their front legs while protecting from abrasions. While these are more suitable for smaller dogs, its worth trying with larger dogs as well.
For dogs that can still walk but need assistance with activities like getting up or climbing stairs, a vest with a handle on the top is highly recommended. Your dog can wear the vest regularly, and you can conveniently grab the handle to provide extra support when necessary. This device has proven to be the most effective in aiding dogs with mobility.
Dealing with Incontinence
Urine and stool incontinence are common in older dogs with decreased mobility. There may be multiple factors contributing to the problem.
Consider whether your dogs pain is controlled adequately. Is he able to get outside quickly enough to potty when he needs to? Is he sleeping too much and needs to be reminded to go outside more often?
Once youve addressed those issues, try thesereusable cloth pants/diapers. Ive used them for both of my 15-year-old senior dogs with great success! You need to change them frequently because dogs will get dermatitis from having a soiled diaper on for too long.
How to Strengthen an Old Dogs Hind Legs
It is sometimes possible to strengthen a dogs hind legs. Please make sure their pain is adequately controlled before starting a rehabilitation regime.
I recommend you find a veterinarian trained in rehabilitation for the best outcome (link to find one), but you can get started on your own with the following tips.
- Take slow walks every day. Even though he might need a few minutes to warm up, regular walking will build and maintain muscle tone and nerve signals to your dogs hind legs. Make the walks short enough that your dog is not sore the next day.
- Swimming is good exercise as long as the season is right and your dog is willing. Dont overdo it. Some dogs get so excited about swimming they end up in a lot of pain later.
- Stretching. Move your dogs limbs through their normal range of motion while shes laying down to keep her limber. Check out this awesome book on how to stretch your dog: The Healthy Way to Stretch Your Dog. My dogs love it!
Summary
Hind leg weakness is common in dogs, especially those over the age 10 years of age. The most common causes include osteoarthritis, degenerative myelopathy, lumbosacral instability and intervertebral disc disease.
Its important to work with your veterinarian because an accurate diagnosis and aggressive treatment can significantly improve a dogs mobility. After therapy is started, its important to monitor the response and make any needed adjustments as symptoms change.
You can also improve your dogs quality of life with some simple changes to your home and routine. Mobility changes dont have to be the end of a dogs happy days!
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Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
