There are many reasons why dogs can lose their hind legs. And, of course, those owners who suddenly encountered this problem are lost and do not know what to do. Just yesterday, their pet briskly jumped on the sofas and played catch-up with the neighbor's dogs, but today it lies listlessly, unable to get up.
Causes of leg failure
Failure of the hind legs in a dog can occur due to injury- with fractures, sprains and ruptures of ligaments and tendons, with damage to peripheral nerves, as well as due to diseases such as arthrosis, arthritis of the joints of the extremities, tumors, discopathy and herniated discs. In addition to these diseases, spinal pathology is possible, in which the innervation of the limbs is disturbed due to the impact on the spinal cord of adverse factors. Paresis and paralysis are frequent companions of spinal cord lesions in the lumbar and thoracic regions.
The most common reason for the hind legs to fail in dogs is a traumatic one: car injuries, falls, blows, strong bites during fights. In some cases, such consequences can lead to an unsuccessful sharp turn, jump and slip on the ice crust.
In the place of direct trauma to the spine, the integrity of the spinal column (its structure) is violated, edema occurs, which leads to compression of the spinal cord and radicular nerves. Accordingly, the flow of blood with oxygen stops, and with prolonged compression, the nerve cells die, which makes it impossible for nerve impulses to pass through the peripheral nerves. Severe traumatic injury leads to a violation of the integrity of the spinal tissue, and a rupture of the spinal cord occurs.
Failure of the normal functioning of the hind limbs in dogs can provoke degenerative diseases of the spine, which are characterized by a violation of important metabolic processes in its tissues. Thus, this leads to pathological changes in the structure of the links of the spinal column.
The dog's hind legs may fail with spondylosis- "local aging" of some vertebral segments. This disease proceeds very slowly, and at the earliest stage it is practically not detected. First of all, the outer fibers of the fibrous ring are affected (the consistency of the nucleus pulposus is preserved), and then calcification of the anterior longitudinal ligament begins. Osteophytes develop, which visually resemble coracoid growths.
With static loads on the spine with osteochondrosis, spondyloarthrosis can develop, which manifests itself in a deforming effect on the joints. Uneven loads on the dog's spine lead to protrusion of the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc through the fibrous ring changed due to pathology (vertebral hernia). In turn, it can "clamp" the radicular nerves or the spinal cord itself.
Tumor-like processes, gradually developing in the immediate vicinity (or itself) of the spinal cord lead to pathological changes and fractures of the spinal column. With a sharp exacerbation of the process, edema and compression of the roots and spinal cord occur, and the following symptoms can be observed in the dog: weakening or failure of the hind limbs, arched back, impaired gait, when the position of the body changes, the dog squeals, concomitant disorders occur (violation of urination and defecation) , in some cases refusal to feed.
Osteocondritis of the spine considered the most severe form of the lesion, this disease is based on degenerative processes in the intervertebral discs (discopathy), often involving the surrounding vertebral bodies, as well as changes in the ligamentous apparatus and intervertebral joints. Osteochondrosis occurs with genetically determined developmental defects, rheumatoid lesions, injuries of the spinal column, disorders of blood microcirculation, and as a result, malnutrition of the disc, as well as autoimmune processes.
Discopathy very common in dogs - French bulldogs. This is due to the anatomical structure of the animal, when, in the course of artificial selection, the spine became elongated, and now it undergoes stronger loads than the spine in “normal” dogs. The distance between the vertebrae became much larger than normal. This is due to genetics and is inherited. A disc prolapse can occur not only during active movements and jumps, but even at rest, when the dog is sleeping or lying quietly.
What to do, complications
It is possible to notice the onset of the disease and urgently contact a specialist, but most inexperienced owners do not attach any importance to such symptoms: anxiety, the dog hides and squeals when they begin to touch it behind its back, it is passive when other dogs frolic. However, in most cases, the alarm begins to sound when the dog's hind legs partially begin to fail or paralysis develops. And here it is necessary to differentiate such a disease as sciatica. Wrongly prescribed treatment (for example, instead of maximum immobilization of the animal - massage), will miss precious time and aggravate the situation,
Similar symptoms can be caused by other unnatural processes that occur in the dog's body. Acute abdominal pain (intestinal colic, acute pancreatitis, renal and hepatic colic, foreign bodies in the gastrointestinal tract). Moreover, the pain that occurs in the spine can "give" to the abdominal organs. Similar symptoms in sciatica and pyelonephritis, in these cases, palpation of the paravertebral zones can cause pain in the lumbar and lower thoracic spine.
External symptoms and prognosis depend on the degree of damage to the spinal cord, which can be established by examining the dog and its ability to move independently. In mild cases, there is a slight lameness, a staggering gait, in severe cases, complete paralysis and inability to move. The degrees of damage can pass one into another very rapidly, depending on the rate of development of pathological processes. The stronger the compression of the nervous tissue, the less blood and nutrients enter it, and as a result, the prognosis for recovery will be worse.
However, if the dog's hind legs suddenly fail, you should immediately contact a veterinary clinic, since in cases of certain diseases, timely intervention can completely stop the pathological process and restore all motor functions. And, on the contrary, in mild cases, an untimely visit to a veterinarian, and even more so an attempt at self-treatment, can lead to irreversible consequences.
When contacting the clinic, the owner must be prepared that some procedures will be required for a correct diagnosis.
The doctor will check the general condition of the dog, check the safety of the sensitivity and reflexes of the limbs, the presence of pain reactions in the spinal column. Conducting x-rays, and sometimes myelography, will help to accurately determine the cause of the refusal of the dog's hind legs, as the pictures will show the slightest violations occurring in the spine.
And, of course, laboratory tests in order to identify comorbidities. According to these studies, the form of treatment will be chosen: surgical or therapeutic.
Frequently Asked Doctor Questions.
A dachshund (5 years old) suddenly had a leg failure, before that there were no obvious symptoms, only she began to refuse fast runs. What is the reason?
The exact cause can only be established after an examination in a veterinary clinic, and the sooner the better. Most likely, the problem is in the spine, or rather, in its specific structure.
A dog, a diver, he is 14 years old. About a year ago, problems with the hind legs began, did he start dragging them? How to treat it?
The exact treatment will be prescribed only by a doctor after a complete examination and examination. Most likely, these are age-related disorders associated with malnutrition of tissues and nerves in the pelvic region.
Rottweiler (9 years old), walked on a leash for a walk and twitched after the cat, and immediately fell down, his hind legs gave out. Is it dangerous and can it be cured?
Unsuccessful movements can lead to damage to the spinal column and loss of functions below the injury. Only a veterinarian will tell how severe the damage is and whether it is possible to put the dog on its feet, so it is necessary to conduct an examination as soon as possible.
Veterinary center "DobroVet"
Dogs are one of the best pets, but they, like humans, have certain health problems, one of which is limb failure. If the dog's hind legs have been taken away, treatment can be lengthy and directly depends on the causes of the pathology, age and breed of the animal.
Description
The hind legs in dogs most often fail due to neurological disorders, and the limbs can cease to function both suddenly and gradually.
Preceding the development of pathology:
- abnormal movement;
- disobedience of paws;
- severe weakening of the limbs.
In the presence of such symptoms, the animal gradually develops paresis, and often complete paralysis. In this case, the muscular system ceases to receive commands from the brain, and the dog ceases to control the movement of its paws. Such problems arise against the background of acquired pathologies of the central nervous system, damage to the brain or spinal cord.
There are the following types of limb paralysis in dogs:
- Monoplegia - paralysis of one leg.
- Paraplegia - paired paralysis of the front, but more often the hind limbs.
- Tetraplegia - paralysis of all legs.
- Hemiplegia - lateral paralysis (two right or left paws suffer).
Depending on the causes of paw failure, the following types of pathology are distinguished:
- Functional. It occurs against the background of the negative impact of external factors and severe stress, it can be temporary and pass on its own without third-party intervention.
- Organic. It occurs when there is a disruption in the functioning of neurons resulting from a physical impact on the brain of an animal (head or spinal). The cause of such an ailment can be injuries, tumor processes, tick bites, infection with enteritis or distemper.
- Central. A disease that develops gradually and causes irreversible changes in smooth muscles, as a result of which they lose their natural functionality. Under such conditions, muscle tone and reflexes may be preserved.
- Peripheral. Pathology, which is most often called paw failure. Occurs against the background of the death of neurons responsible for muscle tone. With such a disease, loss of sensitivity and paralysis of the limbs occurs in a couple of days.
Certain breeds of dogs are genetically predisposed to spinal disc disease and most commonly suffer from limb failure. The most common problem in representatives of the following breeds:
- dachshund;
- Pekingese;
- french bulldogs;
- pugs;
- Brabancons.
In the presence of a genetic predisposition and a hereditary factor, disturbances in the functioning of the limbs in animals begin to be observed at the age of 3-8 years.
Worth knowing! A common diagnosis in veterinary medicine is nervous distemper - limb failure in a dog abandoned by its owner. Or left for a while with another person.
Causes
Signs of the development of pathologies that cause limb failure in dogs do not always become noticeable immediately, and often the owners even aggravate the condition of the animal with excessive loads.
In some cases, problems with the limbs occur with improper care of the animal when:
- microtrauma;
- malnutrition;
- lack of vitamins in the diet;
- obesity
- in old age;
- after prolonged and intense exercise.
In the article "?" describes the negative impact of malnutrition of a pet.
However, most often the paws of a domestic dog fail due to injuries and the development of certain diseases:
- Discopathy.
- Dysplasia.
- Osteochondrosis.
- Arthritis and arthrosis
- Degenerative diseases of the spine.
- Spondylosis and spondioarthrosis.
- Tumors.
- autoimmune processes.
Injuries
Limb injuries are one of the most common causes of paw failure in dogs.
A dog can damage limbs when:
- jumping from a great height;
- falls;
- fights with other dogs;
- awkward movements;
- blows.
Injuries may appear:
- fractures;
- sprains;
- tendon rupture;
- displacement of bones and vertebral discs;
- nerve injury.
When the bones are displaced, the nerves are infringed and the limbs of the animal lose their sensitivity. When the spine is injured, swelling occurs that compresses the spinal cord and disrupts blood flow in it, as a result of which nerve cells die and the limbs completely fail.
Worth knowing! Often, after long-term treatment and improvement in the condition of the dog, a relapse of the disease can be observed due to undertreatment of the initial causes of paw failure.
Discopathy
In veterinary medicine, discopathy is called intervertebral hernia in animals - a common disease of the vertebral discs. With this pathology, the disk substance penetrates the spinal canal to the spinal cord and leads to compression of the spinal nerves.
Most often, dachshunds, bassets, and French bulldogs (breeds with a long spine), as well as animals in old age, suffer from this pathology.
The treatment of discopathy is complex and lengthy and does not always lead to a complete cure, so it is important to protect dogs prone to the disease from sudden movements and intense exercise.
Dysplasia
Intractable pathology of the joints. Most often found in dogs of large breeds with a large body weight:
- labradors;
- shepherds;
- Great Danes;
- St. Bernards;
- Bernese Sinnenhunds.
One of the reasons for the development of dysplasia is the rapid growth of puppies at the age of 4-8 months, so preventive measures are taken for predisposed breeds.
Signs of dysplasia are:
- limping after sleep and prolonged lying;
- back wagging after exertion;
- inability to run and walk for a long time.
Worth knowing! The predisposition to dysplasia is inherited, so when purchasing a puppy, you should ask for test results for the presence of the disease from both of his parents.
Osteocondritis of the spine
Osteochondrosis is a severe degree of damage to the vertebrae associated with impaired mineralization of cartilage tissues. Cartilage gradually hardens and destroys joints and ligaments.
The reasons for the development of osteochondrosis are:
- genetic predisposition (heredity);
- trauma;
- violation of blood microcirculation;
- autoimmune diseases;
- obesity.
Osteochondrosis occurs in representatives of both small and large breeds and can develop asymptomatically for a long time. With an extensive lesion, the dog begins to pull the hind limbs, which subsequently fail completely.
Other pathologies
among other pathologies. capable of leading to limb failure in a dog are:
- Arthritis is an inflammation of the joint bursa, a common disease among older dogs.
- Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease in which cartilage tissues are changed and destroyed.
- degenerative diseases. Occur in violation of metabolic processes in the tissues causing pathology of the links of the spine.
- Spondylosis is a local aging of the segments of the spine characterized by a long course and the impossibility of early diagnosis. The disease affects the fibrous rings and leads to the development of osteophytes (calcareous growths on bone tissues), which impair motor function.
- Spondylarthrosis (deforming arthrosis of the joints). The disease develops under static loads in dogs with osteochondrosis. And also with uneven loads on the spine. The disease leads to the development of spinal hernias and compression of the radicular nerves or the spinal cord itself.
- Neoplasms. Tumors that develop on the spine or in close proximity to it gradually lead to pathological changes and fractures of the spinal column. With an exacerbation of the tumor process, swelling and compression of the spinal cord are possible, manifested by weakening of the limbs, arching of the back in animals, and gait disturbances.
Only a professional veterinarian can determine the cause of paw failure in an animal after a detailed diagnosis.
Symptoms
To determine the presence of neurological disorders, in which the limbs of a dog gradually fail, according to the following signs:
- Pain syndrome.
- Weakness.
- Screeching when moving, standing up and other changes in body position;
- Backward wagging.
- Sharp falls and unsuccessful attempts to stand up.
- Defecation disorder.
- Loss of appetite.
- Atypical change in gait.
- Lameness.
- Decreased activity.
- Aggression.
- Strong anxiety.
- Refusal to play with other animals.
- Trembling in limbs.
- Impaired mobility of the limbs.
- Loss of sensation.
The effectiveness of treatment depends on the timeliness of the visit to the doctor and the correct diagnosis.
Diagnostics
In case of limb failure in a dog, the owners cannot help the pet on their own, therefore, an immediate appeal to the clinic is required.
Worth knowing! In case of vertebral injuries, the transportation of the animal is carried out only in a state fixed to a hard surface (with a bandage or belts).
Painkillers should not be given to the dog before contacting the veterinarian, as the symptoms of the disease can become blurred and make it difficult to diagnose.
An experienced doctor in case of limb failure in a dog uses the following diagnostic methods:
- Inspection of the animal and assessment of its current condition.
- Checking reflexes.
- Assessment of tactile and pain sensitivity of the limbs and spine.
- X-ray.
- Myelography (X-ray examination with the introduction of a contrast agent into the spinal canal of the animal) can detect even minor disorders.
- Analysis of urine and blood. Laboratory studies are carried out to identify concomitant neurological pathology of disorders of the kidneys, liver and heart.
- MRI or CT (magnetic resonance or computed tomography) - studies that help identify tumors in an animal.
Important! Incorrect actions of the owner in case of paw failure in a dog can lead to a deterioration in its condition and even death.
After conducting the necessary studies, the degree of damage is assessed and a prognosis is given about the possibility of treatment, which can be both conservative and operative.
Treatment
Depending on the diagnosis established during the diagnosis and the causes of limb failure, the animal is prescribed drug injection therapy. For the treatment of inflammatory processes in acute diseases in dogs, steroid hormonal preparations are used:
- "Solumedrol";
- "Metipred";
- "Dexamethasone";
- "Prednisolone".
After the end of the course of treatment with hormones, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is additionally indicated:
- "Rimadil";
- "Quadrisol".
Important! It is strictly contraindicated to treat animals with anti-inflammatory drugs intended for humans, since such therapy can lead to the opening of gastric bleeding and death of the animal.
Also, the following drugs can be prescribed for treatment:
- B vitamins to improve the nutrition of nerve tissues.
- "Actovegin" for the restoration of oxygen-glucose metabolism in damaged tissues.
- "Prozerin" to restore neuromuscular conduction (not prescribed for acute forms of diseases).
- Antizolinesterase drugs.
If medical therapy is not possible and ineffective, surgical intervention is indicated, followed by therapy with anti-inflammatory drugs.
Operations are performed to eliminate the causes of compression of the spinal cord, edema and tumors and are indicated only after a detailed examination.
In the rehabilitation period (after surgery), measures are necessary to restore the animal's motor activity:
- swimming;
- walks in the open air;
- games with other dogs.
Worth knowing! With extensive lesions of the nervous tissues and a high degree of compression of the spine, manifested by a lack of sensitivity in the limbs and a violation of defecation, the treatment prognosis is most often unfavorable.
Prevention
It is possible to reduce the risk of developing pathologies that cause limb failure or delay their appearance if the following preventive measures are observed:
- Apply chondroprotective drugs for prophylactic purposes to puppies of large breeds during the period of active growth.
- Prevent puppies of large dogs and breeds with a long vertebra from jumping and playing with large dogs.
- Until the age of six months, push puppies down stairs exclusively on their hands (regardless of breed).
- If there is a predisposition to dysplasia (by breed characteristics or a hereditary factor), periodically conduct x-ray diagnostics.
- Provide the animal with moderate physical activity (both a lack and an excess of activity are harmful.
- Protect the dog from being in drafts so that he does not catch a cold of the spine.
- Minimize the risk of injury.
- Provide your pet with a balanced diet. In puppyhood, give special food for young dogs.
- Give your dog essential vitamins and minerals (with or without food).
The French Bulldog is one of the breeds prone to pathologies associated with paw failure. In the article "" you can get complete information about food suitable for such dogs.
The failure of a dog's paws is a tragedy for both the animal itself and its owner. With timely diagnosis, pathology can be completely eliminated, or its development can be significantly slowed down.
Almost every owner dreams of his puppy and adult four-legged pet being healthy and happy. And noticing that a dear barking family member begins to drag his hind legs, walk unsteadily or tremble, the owner begins to panic and does not know what to do. Do not try to diagnose your dog on your own, it is best to seek help from a veterinarian.
Of course, it is best to find out in advance what can lead to impaired motor function in a dog. Yes, this knowledge cannot protect the animal, but it can help the owner notice in time that something is wrong with the pet. And if this puppy got sick, then the timely treatment started will help make the baby's future life easier.
Causes of weakness in the hind legs in a dog
- Destruction or damage / displacement of the intervertebral discs. Most often, Pekingese, pugs, bulldogs (both French and English), dachshunds, and poodles suffer from these diseases. Damage/displacement/destruction of the intervertebral disc is dangerous for the life of the animal, as the spinal cord is compressed and injured.
- Diseases of the hip joints are most often recorded in dogs of large breeds (for example, in a Rottweiler, Alabai, Caucasian, German Shepherd and others). Moreover, a puppy often suffers (at the age of four months to a year), less often an adult animal. In addition, almost always we are talking about acquired diseases, extremely rarely the pathology is congenital.
What can contribute to damage to the hip joints in a dog? This is overweight (unbalanced or excessive feeding is especially often to blame, more precisely, obvious overfeeding, lack of physical activity), and slippery floors (when the animal's paws are constantly moving apart), and heredity, and infectious diseases, and injuries.
Yes, and too active dog training (especially if it is a puppy) will not lead to good if its musculoskeletal system has not yet fully developed. Jumping from heights, over barriers, running long distances on poor surfaces - all this will cause irreparable damage to the joints.
- Another reason for the weakness of the hind legs in a dog of any breed (be it a dachshund or a mastiff) can be myositis - inflammation of the muscle tissue. It develops after heavy physical exertion, but not immediately, but the next day. In addition, adult animals most often suffer from myositis.
- Brain damage can also affect the firmness of the animal's gait. These are tumors and vascular pathologies (which, by the way, are recorded much more often than neoplasms). Without additional examinations in a veterinary clinic, even the most experienced doctor will not make an accurate diagnosis.
- Injuries. Spinal bruises (and more serious injuries) can cause puppies and adult dogs to walk wobbly and lose their legs. Therefore, if the puppy has fallen, been hit, hit by a car, contact the clinic immediately, without waiting for the appearance of clinical signs. Sometimes the symptoms do not show up right away because of the shock.
Symptoms of weak hind legs in a dog
- If the reason that the dog (whether an adult pet or a puppy) has weak hind legs is damage to the intervertebral discs (including compression of the spinal cord), then the animal shows “bright” signs of severe pain. Therefore, the dog spends almost all the time in one position (hunched over, but stretching out his neck), because any movement causes acute pain. Trembling, shortness of breath is noticeable (it is noticeable that the pet “uses” to the full only its front paws, cannot jump onto the sofa). With mild compression of the brain, the symptoms are not so pronounced, but it is still noticeable that the four-legged friend is not able to live a full life (even bending over to the bowl is hard).
- If a puppy or an adult dog has weakness of the hind legs in the morning (or immediately after rest), and after some time after walking it disappears, then most likely the pet has problems with the hip joints. And it is not always dysplasia, as the owners think. In addition, both joints are extremely rarely affected at the same time, so the puppy limps on only one leg. As soon as you notice something like this in your pet, do not hesitate to visit the veterinarian.
- With myositis, the animal develops not just weakness of the hind legs, the dog moves as if on stilts. If you notice that your pet's gait has changed, be sure to contact a specialist!
Treating a Dog with Weak Hind Legs
The main rule - never start the treatment of a puppy and an adult dog on your own, without consulting a veterinarian! Such self-medication can kill the animal. Especially if you decide to use "human" medicines, and even "make a diagnosis" yourself.
Therefore, if you see that your German Shepherd puppy, for example, or an Alabai, or a terrier (yes, no matter what breed) suddenly begins to “own” its hind limbs worse, then the first thing you should do is contact a veterinary clinic.
Not on forums to ask for advice on what to give the dog, not to ask the neighbors what could happen to the pet, but to run to the doctor! He will already prescribe additional examinations (ultrasound, X-ray, blood tests, and others), based on the results of which a diagnosis will already be made. And only after that treatment should be prescribed.
Medication alone is not always effective. Agree, if a puppy has a congenital pathology of the joints, then the use of drugs will only make the animal feel better, “remove” the symptoms, but the problem will not disappear. The same can be said about the displacement of the intervertebral discs, hernia. Therefore, it is better for the veterinarian to decide what to do in a given situation, but the owner is required to comply with all the recommendations of a specialist.
Some owners decide that if they gave the animal a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, then the dog recovered, because it got better. But this should not be done, because this “relief” is temporary, and very quickly everything will return to normal in a puppy or adult dog. Trust the veterinarian, who will select an effective treatment regimen that will put both the shepherd puppy and the adult Pekingese on their paws.
Some breeds have a genetic predisposition to lesions of the intervertebral discs. Specific symptoms are seen in:
- Tax.
- Brabancon.
- French bulldogs.
- Pekingese.
Violation of the work of the hind limbs is observed at about 3–8 years of the pet's life.
Symptoms
The main factors due to which a dog's legs may fail include the following:
- Trauma (for example, a broken leg, nerve damage, torn ligaments or sprains).
- Arthritis.
- The presence of neoplasms.
- Spinal pathology.
Problems with the nervous system are one of the first causes of paralysis. In this case, in the morning the animal may feel pain, and by the evening the paws are paralyzed.
Spondylosis of some parts of the spine is another reason for this phenomenon. The disease proceeds slowly and in the first stages is not expressed in a certain symptomatology, later growths form on the spine, which prevent the normal movement of the animal.
In the presence of tumors in the spine, compression of the nerve roots and spinal cord occurs. As a result, the animal develops weakness in the limbs, it characteristically arches its back, and appetite disappears. The dog lets out a whimper when trying to move habitually.
Hip dysplasia is most commonly seen in heavy breeds. In this case, the dog may limp immediately after sleep, but during the day his normal activity is restored. The disease progresses, if left untreated, the pet may completely stop walking.
Spinal pathologies develop after bites and unsuccessful falls, in which the integrity of the spinal column is violated and swelling appears. As a result, the spinal cord is compressed, leading to paralysis.
Initially, the disease begins to actively manifest itself with the appearance of very strong pain. The animal feels weakness and general malaise. As the attack intensifies, the limbs cease to obey the animal and are eventually simply taken away.
All these manifestations usually overtake the animal very sharply and develop at lightning speed. However, in some more complex cases, the animal may begin to have a seizure of such a dangerous disease as epilepsy.
Many dogs suffer from the fact that, for example, limbs began to be taken away in the morning, and by the evening their complete paralysis developed in a domestic dog, the treatment of which is a rather difficult period.
The first specific symptom is pain. A little later, the dog becomes weak, lethargic. It is difficult for her to move her paws. Pain sensitivity disappears last.
These signs may appear while playing with other animals.
- If the disease is started symptoms appear even when the dog is in a state of relative rest.
- Sometimes all the signs of the disease appear at once. Often in the first half of the day there is a pain syndrome, and in the late afternoon paralysis of the paws develops.
- The most insidious disease is spondylosis. At first it proceeds slowly and is not detected in the early stages. When the pathology progresses, the development of osteophytes is observed. Visually, they resemble beak-like growths.
- Tumors in the spine also do not manifest themselves at first.. When the process escalates, the spinal cord is compressed. This leads to arching of the animal's back and disruption of its gait.
- Getting up and sitting down, the pet may squeal in pain. Sometimes there is involuntary urination. In some animals, the act of defecation is disturbed. A weakened dog may refuse to eat.
Main symptoms
There can be quite a few reasons why a puppy may be faced with the fact that his hind legs could fail. In most cases, when the owner notices that a fulminant paresis of the hind limbs has formed in dogs, his treatment can be something completely thoughtless. Therefore, when the first symptoms appear, it is urgent to consult a veterinarian.
The most common causes of cuts in their majority can be the following:
- inflamed pelvic joint;
- limb fracture;
- nerve damage;
- displacement of intervertebral discs;
- tendon injury;
- benign and cancerous tumors.
In the event that the veterinarian made a thorough examination of the pet and completely ruled out the listed causes of the disease, then most likely the leg failure occurs due to any negative impact on the dog's spinal cord. Most often, the hind legs can fail if the thoracic or lumbar spine is affected.
This symptom is often observed against the background of a violation of the innervation of the paws. A provocateur can be a lesion of the spinal cord at the level of the lumbar or thoracic spine.
Sometimes this symptom occurs due to an injury.
Features of discopathy
The changed substance of the disc penetrates into the spinal canal, where the spinal cord is located. This contributes to the compression of the spinal nerves. Often discopathy is diagnosed in Bassets and Dachshunds.
Features of dysplasia
Dysplasia is most often diagnosed with Great Danes, St. Bernards, Alabays, Labradors, German Shepherds. The main reason for the development is the rapid growth of puppies. In large breeds, this is observed from 4 to 8 months.
Often, dysplasia is transmitted genetically to dogs. Therefore, when buying an animal, you need to ask for both documents and tests for this disease of his father and mother.
Features of osteochondrosis
The main cause of this serious disease is considered to be impaired cartilage mineralization. It quickly hardens, which contributes to the rapid destruction of the joint.
Osteochondrosis is dangerous because, if left untreated, the hind limbs of the animal gradually fail.
Features of arthritis and arthrosis
These pathologies are most often diagnosed in dogs of heavy, large breeds. The main difference between arthrosis and arthritis is the absence of inflammation. There is a rapid change in cartilage, which is soon destroyed. In arthritis, the joint sac becomes inflamed. This disease occurs in older animals.
What to do?
At the first signs of paralysis, it is important to contact a veterinarian who, through diagnosis and questioning, will find out the root cause of this phenomenon and prescribe treatment. Remember: delay in this case threatens with a complete disability of the animal! Since most of these pathologies are neurological in nature, you will need to make an appointment with a specialist.
If the dog is injured (for example, in a fall), and there is a suspicion that it is the spine that is damaged, you need to take the animal to a veterinary clinic as soon as possible. At the same time, it is imperative to ensure the immobility of the spine (for this, the dog must be fixed on a wide board with elastic bandages).
With severe pain, you should not give painkillers on your own. In this case, the animal may begin to move and the vertebrae may shift even more, so it is better to wait for a visit from a specialist.
Please note: the symptoms of paralysis often resemble signs of sciatica. As a result, an inexperienced owner, instead of providing immobilization, performs massage procedures. This worsens the situation even more, besides, time is wasted.
If the dog has begun to pull his hind legs, you need to be very careful about this problem. In most cases, the problem of hind leg failure is not solved without the intervention of a veterinarian, and excessive delay in contacting the clinic can lead to negative consequences. What to do if the pet began to pull the hind legs?
- Analyze what exactly could cause the failure of the hind legs in order to give the most accurate answer during the consultation with the veterinarian. You need to consider whether the pet has had injuries or recent illnesses. Any information that may be even slightly related to the occurrence of such a problem should be reported to the doctor.
- Contact the veterinary clinic. Whatever the reason for the failure of the hind legs, it is simply necessary to get the advice of a veterinarian. Perhaps the paw problems are just a symptom of some more serious disease. Therefore, do not postpone a visit to the doctor.
- Review dog food. One of the most common causes of hind limb problems is an improper diet (too much protein, calcium, phosphorus, etc.). In the early stages of many diseases, it is the correction of nutrition that can help get rid of the problem. Of course, before making changes in the diet of the animal, you should consult a veterinarian.
If the dog is pulling its hind legs, it is necessary to contact the veterinarian and determine the cause of limb failure. If you provide your pet with quick and high-quality treatment, you can avoid the development of many serious diseases!
Features of diagnostics
The veterinary clinic conducts a comprehensive diagnosis of the condition of the pet. The doctor does the following:
- visual inspection.
- Checking the sensitivity of the affected limb.
- Checking reflex activity.
- Definition of a painful syndrome in the spine.
- Carrying out x-rays.
In some cases, myelography is prescribed: with the help of a contrast agent, even the slightest modifications of the spinal column can be seen.
To exclude concomitant pathologies in the kidneys, blood and urine tests are prescribed: laboratory tests enable the veterinarian to determine the exact disease and prescribe the course of treatment.
The exact treatment depends on the cause of the disease. To eliminate spasmodic conditions, nosh-pa and other antispasmodics are prescribed. If the animal experiences pain, a course of analgesics is prescribed in the form of injections. At the same time, a neurologist can offer a course of vitamins from group B, which restore the normal functioning of nerve fibers.
In the treatment of paralysis, blockade of individual nerves with novocaine injections has a good effect. Affected muscles can warm up, massage procedures are prescribed. Please note: novocaine blockade is an intervention that is carried out only in a clinic under the supervision of an experienced neurologist veterinarian!
How can you help a dog?
Having found at least one of the alarming symptoms in a dog, you should contact a veterinarian specializing in neurology as soon as possible. To establish a primary diagnosis, the doctor:
- Schedules x-rays.
- Checks for pain in the area of the spine.
- Clarifies the safety of reflexes.
- Checks for pain and tactile sensitivity.
Sometimes a sick animal is assigned to undergo a myelography. The conducted studies help the veterinarian to assess the stage of the lesion and determine the therapeutic tactics.
Medical treatment
If the dog's condition is characterized as acute, she is prescribed the use of steroid hormones:
- Solumedrol.
- Metipred.
- Dexamethasone.
- Prednisolone.
At the end of this course, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to the dog. The pet is recommended to take Rimadil, Quadrisol.
This leads to the opening of gastric bleeding. Often there is a fatal outcome.
In order to improve the nutrition of the nervous tissue, the dog is given injections of B vitamins. The metabolism of oxygen and glucose in the affected tissues is activated by Actovegin. Prozerin is recommended for resuscitation of neuromuscular conduction. It can be combined with other anticholinesterase drugs.
When the pathology is in the acute phase, Prozerin is not prescribed. It is important to remember that these injections are painful.
Surgery
During the operation, the veterinarian removes the vertebral arches. After surgery, the doctor advises the owners of the dog regarding the rehabilitation period.
What is the prognosis?
The prognosis depends on the degree of compression. The larger the area of damage to the nervous tissue, the worse it is. If the animal has impaired defecation, there is no pain sensitivity, then the prognosis worsens.
Therefore, it is very important to notice the onset of the disease. You should immediately contact the veterinary clinic when the dog:
- very worried;
- hiding from the owner;
- squeals when her back is touched;
- refuses to play with other animals.
Prevention measures
There are animals that are at risk for such neurological disorders. These include hounds, dachshunds and other breeds with a long body. If your pet belongs to one of these breeds, it is important to carefully follow preventive measures.
Thus, if a dog's hind legs fail during walking, physical activity, or after sleep, steps should be taken as soon as possible to determine the correct diagnosis and prescribe effective therapy.
You can also ask a question to our website staff veterinarian, who will answer them as soon as possible in the comments box below.
Preventive actions
What should the owner take into account so that the pet does not encounter such a problem as hind limb failure? This question is one hundred percent rhetorical, since in old age, regardless of the actions of the owner, many dogs suffer from this disease.
However, in some cases, this risk is minimized if the following basic preventive instructions are followed:
- Large breed dogs in puppyhood are advised to take medications that can protect the spine from weakness in adulthood.
- It is very important that the puppy actively develops by playing with his relatives. Only under the condition of active rest, the vertebrae are not able to remain in one position.
- Up to six months, the dog is contraindicated in descending the stairs. The animal must be carried on hand. But, as for the ascent, he must do it himself.
- If the pet has a genetic predisposition to joint dysplasia, it is necessary to periodically make an x-ray examination.
- Physical activity should be reasonable, overloads are as harmful as their lack.
- The pet's diet must be strictly balanced. Vitamins and minerals should be present in the diet in the required amount.
- It is strictly forbidden to organize a sleeping place for a puppy in that part of the room where there are most drafts. There is a possibility of blowing the spine and inflammation of its discs.
- It is necessary to avoid injuries and other damage to both the spinal region and the limbs of the dog.
Summing up, it should be noted that if you notice any alarming symptoms in your pet, you should immediately consult a doctor, since self-medication can only harm him.
Puppies of heavy breeds should be given chondroprotectors. Until the age of 12 months, this should be done constantly. Dachshunds and large dogs up to 10 months. you can't jump. Games with large adult animals are undesirable.
Before reaching the age of six months, puppies of any breed must be carried on their hands when descending.
- They rise on their own. This is helps to strengthen the muscles.
- Animals prone to dysplasia are shown periodic x-ray examination. This will help to detect the disease in a timely manner.
- It is important to provide your pet sufficient level of physical activity. Their excess is just as harmful as the lack of activity.
- Dog nutrition should be balanced. Until the age of six months, the animal should be given special food for young dogs. The pet's diet should be saturated with vitamins and other substances necessary for the body.
- It is important to protect your dog from drafts. Otherwise, there is a risk of catching a cold of the spine.
- It is desirable to minimize the risk of injury. This will avoid the development of dangerous pathologies.
A caring owner will always be able to notice the unusual behavior of his four-legged friend, especially if the dog's hind legs suddenly fail. A complete or partial failure of the back of the musculoskeletal system can sometimes occur at the most inopportune moment and therefore it is best to meet the disease fully armed.
Causes and factors determining hind limb failure
Causes
In modern veterinary practice, there are two main types of causes of hind limb failure in dogs according to etiology:
- Orthopedic;
- neurological
Each of which requires the timely identification of signs that served as a stimulant to the occurrence of a violation of the pet's musculoskeletal functions.
Factors
The most common factors affecting the failure of one or both hind limbs include:
- Acquired pathologies of an orthopedic nature, resulting from injuries to a pet;
- Articular arthritis of the back of the body;
- Disc dystrophy;
- Herniated discs;
- Neoplasms of various etiologies;
- Dysplasia;
- Osteocondritis of the spine
Moreover, many owners note age factors after passing the 8-year age barrier. A particular tendency to sudden limping, failure of one or two hind limbs at once, most often spontaneously during sharp turns, jumps or sliding on ice.
In this case, any of the injuries inevitably leads to atrophy of the nerve endings of the cells of the spinal cord, which entails a failure or complete disruption of the transmission of impulses to the peripheral nerves. The slightest suspicion of any of the above diseases, when the dog's hind legs refuse treatment, can only be prescribed by a specialist, and therefore requires a professional approach.
Diseases as a result of the fact that the dog began to walk badly
A knowledgeable specialist in a veterinary clinic will be able to recognize the onset of a malfunction in the functioning of the spinal cord, and make an accurate diagnosis. Modern veterinary medicine provides for several major diseases that can cause an old dog to walk poorly, and in some cases can completely debilitate:
- Spondylosis - leads to the formation of coracoid growths on the intervertebral links, often leads to paralysis of the hind limbs;
- Neoplasms of the lower spine - cause pathological irreversible changes in the spine, a sharp exacerbation of which can lead to well-defined visually identifiable symptoms - a weak gait, an unusual arch of the back, squealing when changing body position, involuntary defecation and lack of appetite;
- Spondylarthrosis - a herniated disc that compresses the radicular nerves and spinal cord;
- Neurological deficit or discopathy - as a result of which the altered brain substance leaks from the intervertebral disc to the vertebral canal, completely clamping the spinal cord and nerve endings, thereby causing an acute neurological deficit. Dangerously late onset of symptoms and typical for dogs of the following breeds: German Shepherds, Dobermans, Great Danes, Rottweilers, French Bulldogs;
- Dysplasia - is a malfunction of the hip joints, which is typical for dogs of heavy breeds - St. Bernard, Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Great Dane - and most often has a hereditary predisposition. Manifested in puppyhood 4-10 months during active growth, at first problematic getting up after sleep, slightly noticeable lameness, passing when walking. It is fraught with complete failure of the hind legs with a belated visit to the veterinary clinic;
- Osteochondrosis of the spine is the most dangerous disease, accompanied by partial, and then complete degeneration of the vertebral discs and paralysis. The development of the disease is facilitated by genetically unstable defective development of the vertebrae, rheumatoid lesions, injuries, microcirculation failure of the intervertebral substance, disrupting the nutrition of the disc, autoimmune processes;
- Spinal pathology - caused by paresis or paralysis, which may occur due to injuries, falls, bruises in dogs of small breeds
Sharp turns, bad jumps, slips, biting during fights with other dogs - all this can lead to hind limb failure in a pet. The correct diagnosis can only be made by a qualified veterinarian who will conduct an examination and prescribe an individual treatment.
In addition, in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary, and in order not to delay it to such an extent, you need to contact the clinic in a timely manner.
The dog's hind legs have given up, what should I do?
Regardless of the age when a 14-year-old dog's hind legs fail or it's just a small defenseless puppy, every pet owner should be aware of the seriousness of the problem. A timely call to the veterinarian can speed up the recovery process, and possibly save the life of a family pet.