Why would a dog drag his back legs?

Why would a dog drag his back legs?

Degenerative myelopathy initially affects the back legs and causes muscle weakness and loss, and lack of coordination. These cause a staggering affect that may appear to be arthritis. The dog may drag one or both rear paws when it walks. This dragging can cause the nails of one foot to be worn down.

Why do Labradors back legs go?

There are many reasons why a Lab’s legs might give out including hip dysplasia and arthritis. Trauma is another reason, such as cruciate ligament tears. Another potential cause is degenerative myelopathy. The causes of your Labrador’s legs giving out often have to do with age.

How old is my dog when she starts dragging her paws?

Other dogs who are more commonly affected but not due to chondrodystrophic reasons are German Shepherds, Dobermans, and Labrador Retrievers most likely between 8-10 years old. Dogs who are of these breeds and are overweight will be furtherly susceptible.

What to do if your dog is dragging his back legs?

Dog owners usually notice occasional dragging of back feet that progresses to back leg weakness and trouble walking. A diagnosis of DM is based on clinical symptoms, blood testing, and radiographs (x-rays). In some cases, electromyogram (muscle testing), spinal taps and CT/MRI help confirm the diagnosis.

Why does my German Shepherd keep dragging her legs?

German Shepherds who are getting older can often be seen with this disease. Otherwise, it is known to occur in older dogs of large breeds. Sciatic nerve damage, also called sciatica, is a painful condition that will begin in the lumbar area and move to the legs.

What are the signs of a dog dragging its feet?

The first signs will be a loss of coordination occurring in the rear limbs. Dragging of the feet, knuckling over and wobbliness can all be observed in dogs who are developing the condition. Symptoms will most likely begin in one hind leg and progress to the other.