Hind Leg Weakness in Dogs

February 19, 2021 2 min read

As our dogs get older, they become more prone to more health problems and conditions than when they were young pups. There are many causes of hind leg weakness in dogs and the exact cause is hard to discover, even for vets. Senior dogs often show weakness in their hind legs, and this happens gradually over time.  However, reasons may vary, ranging from an acute injury to something more serious that needs to be addressed by a veterinarian.

Common Signs:

  1. Weakness and shaking in the back legs.
  2. Inability to support the weight.
  3. Dragging rear feet.
  4. Wobbling.
  5. Difficulty getting up.
  6. Reluctant to be active.
  7. Lack of balance.
  8. Swelling and pain.

There could be multiple causes of back leg weakness, but the most common causes are:

  1. Degenerative Myelopathy:

With this disease the nerves within the spinal cord begin to degrade, causing weakness or paralysis. This is most common.

  1. Patellar Luxation:

This condition is described by the knee slipping out of its groove-socket, and then the dog may no longer be able to place weight on the affected leg. This does not exactly cause weakness in the legs; however, it makes it painful for a dog to place weight on the affected leg or legs.

  1. Osteoarthritis:

Which is inflammatory arthritis that can be in the knee -- may cause weakness in a dog's hind legs. 

  1. Injury:

Injury to the spinal cord or nerves supplying the hind legs. This is generally the most obvious cause of dog hind leg weakness.

  1. Infectious Diseases:

Several microorganisms and parasites can cause inflammation or paralysis in a dog’s spinal cord, disks, or nerves. This includes roundworms and some species of ticks.

If you have noticed signs of weakness in your dog’s back legs, take him into the clinic to be examined as many of the causes can be progressive. Relay all symptoms you have noticed in your dog, including changes in appetite and behavior in your dog. Recovery is reliant on the cause of the weakness, the seriousness of the condition, and how soon treatment is begun. Many conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, and degenerative myelopathy, can be controlled through a diet and exercise plan that can keep your dog’s weight under control and have the appropriate exercise.

To assist in pain management for your dog the Benefab® Canine Comfort Suit targets the back, body, and hind legs. The fabric emits far-infrared rays, keeping muscles, joints, tendons, and ligaments supple and relaxed. The shirt provides supportive compression for anxiety and comfort. It helps harmonize bodily functions safely and naturally stimulating recovery time, promoting blood circulation, increasing oxygen flow, and ultimately reducing pain and stiffness. Material is also breathable with wicking qualities.  A few of the many features and benefits are:

  1. Reduce anxiety.
  2. Soothe soreness.
  3. Supple muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
  4. Increase mobility.
  5. Rehabilitate from injury faster.
  6. 100% Natural and Safe to use.
  7. Promote blood circulation.

Learn more about it here! >>> https://bit.ly/3u80EPc



Also in Blog

Club Foot in Horses: Answers to Your Questions
Club Foot in Horses: Answers to Your Questions

April 18, 2024 3 min read

Club foot is a condition affecting a horse’s hoof. A horse suffering from club foot has a steeper angle between the hoof wall and the ground, which causes the horse to stand on its toes. Horses can develop club foot in one front hoof or both.
7 Benefits of Drinking Hot Water
7 Benefits of Drinking Hot Water

April 12, 2024 2 min read

Water is an essential part of everyone’s lives. It is crucial for your body to function properly. But did you know drinking hot or warm water has many health benefits? Hot water has been linked to increased relaxation, improved digestion, and reduced pain. Here are the top seven benefits of drinking hot water daily.
Strangles Vaccine for Horses: Is It Necessary?
Strangles Vaccine for Horses: Is It Necessary?

April 05, 2024 2 min read

One of the big questions facing horse owners is whether to vaccinate their equines against strangles. The decision includes many factors, including the risk of strangles exposure, the preventive measures implemented in the barn, and personal considerations such as the financial implications and emotional toll of dealing with the disease