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 stop functioning 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 is 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 carrying out the necessary studies, the degree of damage is assessed and a prognosis is made 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.
Many dogs are prone to developing diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Cases when their hind legs fail are not uncommon. There are several reasons for this condition.
Which breeds most often fail hind legs?
Usually owners of dogs of small and medium sizes face this problem.
Dachshunds have a predisposition to damage to the hind legs.
Some breeds have a genetic predisposition to lesions of the intervertebral discs. Specific symptoms are seen in:
- Tax.
- Brabancon.
- French bulldogs.
- Pekingese.
The dysfunction of the hind limbs is observed at approximately 3-8 year of pet's life .
The main causes of pathology
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.
The development of arthritis can cause hind leg failure.
But also the hind legs may fail due to development:
- neoplasms in the spine.
Sometimes this symptom occurs due to an injury.
Features of discopathy
This pathology is also referred to as an intervertebral hernia.
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.
Discopathy is often seen in Basset dogs.
Features of dysplasia
This pathology is very difficult to treat.
Dysplasia often occurs in dogs of the Great Dane breed.
Often dysplasia passed down 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
Osteochondrosis in a dog in the picture.
Conditional "continuation" of discopathy is osteochondrosis.
The main cause of this serious disease is considered to be impaired cartilage mineralization. It hardens rapidly, which contributes.
Osteochondrosis dangerous because, if left untreated, the hind limbs of the animal gradually fail.
Features of arthritis and arthrosis
Arthritis and arthrosis are more common in older dogs.
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.
Symptoms
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.
Pain in the extremities is the main symptom of the disease.
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.
How can you help a dog?
Having found at least one of the alarming symptoms in a dog, you need to see a veterinarian as soon as possible specializing in neurology. 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.
If you notice alarming symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.
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.
When diagnosing, it is very important to differentiate sciatica. Wrong treatment contributes to the aggravation of symptoms.
Medical treatment
If the dog's condition is characterized as acute, she is prescribed the use of steroid hormones:
- Solumedrol.
- Metipred.
- Dexamethasone.
- Prednisolone.
Solumedrol is used in the acute course of the disease.
At the end of this course, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to the dog. Pet recommended admission Rimadila, Quadrisola .
"Human" NSAIDs should not be given to animals.
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 prescribed B vitamins injections . The metabolism of oxygen and glucose in the affected tissues is activated by Actovegina. 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 not registered. It is important to remember that these injections are painful.
Surgery
The main goal of the operation is to eliminate compression of the spinal cord. Surgery is prescribed only after a comprehensive examination of the dog.
Surgery is prescribed to relieve compression of the spinal cord.
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?
Severe swelling contributes to the compression of the nervous tissue. Against this background, there is a deterioration in blood supply. The access of oxygen to the affected tissue is disrupted, and the nerve cells die.
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.
Preventive actions
It is better to take a puppy of any breed in your arms when descending.
Sooner or later, any dog will have problems with the limbs. The task of the owner is to reduce the risk of developing dangerous diseases. To do this, follow the preventive recommendations.
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 six months old puppies of any breed should be carried on your hands during the descent.
- 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.
Keep your dog away from drafts.
Video about hind leg failure in dogs
Different people describe the signs of the disease in different ways: a wagging gait, a dog dragging its paws, paralysis of the hind legs, lameness, a hunchback of the back, and so on. There is no single reason for the problems described. Therefore, qualified diagnosis is very important for effective treatment. In this case, you can not do without a visit to the doctor.
In this article, we will try to provide general information on the possible causes of hind limb weakness in dogs, as well as briefly outline the general principles for diagnosing the treatment of related diseases. There is a breed and age predisposition to certain pathologies.
Discopathy, disc herniation. So, Pekingese, dachshunds, French and English bulldogs, poodles and pugs are predisposed to displacement and destruction of the intervertebral discs. This pathology poses a serious danger to life and can even lead to the death of the dog. When the disc is displaced, the spinal cord is compressed.
Outwardly, this is manifested by repeated bouts of severe pain: the dog freezes in one position (usually with an extended neck and hunched back), severe trembling, shortness of breath, hind legs give way, weaken. With a less pronounced compression of the spinal cord, only weakness of the hind limbs is clinically observed - the dog, as it were, drags them, tries to transfer the weight of the body mainly to the front paws, cannot jump onto the sofa (chair, armchair), cannot bend over to the bowl or to the floor.
If discopathy is suspected, it is necessary to immediately conduct a qualified diagnosis and take effective measures up to surgery, since spinal cord compression can quickly lead to irreversible changes when any treatment is ineffective.
Dysplasia. Dogs of large and giant breeds (St. Bernard, Great Danes, Rottweiler, Newfoundland, Retrievers, German Shepherds) at the age of 4-12 months are predisposed to diseases of the hip joints. Many factors influence the occurrence of these diseases, in particular, an unbalanced diet, overweight puppy, paws sliding on the floor, heredity, and so on.
With damage to the hip joints, most often, signs of weakness of the limbs appear after rest (in the morning, when getting up) and decrease during physical activity. In addition, the defeat of the hip joints is rarely symmetrical, and the dog first "falls" on only one paw. You can read more about the pathology of the hip joints in our article "Dysplasia ..."
Myositis. Middle-aged dogs the day after unusually hard physical activity may suffer from muscle inflammation - myositis. One of the manifestations of myositis is weakness of the hind limbs, “stilted gait”. Treatment of myositis is not a serious problem. However, only a veterinarian can distinguish myositis from a spinal cord injury.
Diseases of the vascular system. In older dogs, hind limb weakness may be of central origin, ie. associated with brain dysfunction. According to our observations, most often there are various vascular problems, less often - volumetric processes (brain tumors). In this case, competent treatment can significantly improve the condition of the dog and significantly extend its life.
Kidney disease in dogs MAY NOT cause weakness in the hind limbs and a hunched posture, unless it is an extreme degree of exhaustion and autointoxication (however, in this case, weakness extends to all muscles).
A common mistake owners make is self-treatment of the dog with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, indomethacin, diclofenac, rimadyl, etc.). Clinical improvements with the use of these drugs are only temporary and mask the manifestations of the underlying disease. In addition, medical anti-inflammatory drugs have serious side effects in dogs, including ulceration of the stomach wall and stomach bleeding.
Valgus deformity of the hind limbs, X-shaped hind limbs. Hallux valgus develops most often in rapidly growing puppies of large dog breeds. It is characterized by a significant curvature of the bones of the thigh and lower leg, as a result of which the setting of the hind limbs significantly changes.
The most likely cause by far is improper feeding. Excess protein and energy in the puppy's diet leads to accelerated growth and weight gain. In this case, the total weight of the young animal exceeds the natural resistance to stress of the developing skeletal system of the limbs.
If the animals get to the doctor in a timely manner, before the onset of severe deformities of the limbs, then a sharp restriction of the amount of protein and caloric content of the feed is sufficient. Painkillers and chondroprotectors reduce pain, but thus increase the young animal's need for movement, which leads to an increase in the biomechanical load. After the growth zones are closed, corrective operations on the bones can be performed, which significantly improve the quality of life of the animals.
Osteochondrosis. This is a complex pathology, manifested by a violation of cartilage mineralization. The disease is ubiquitous and occurs in various animal species, including dogs. In dogs, osteochondrosis is observed as a primary disease of puppies of large breeds (i.e., more than 25 kg of adult weight). Breeds at highest risk: Great Dane, Labrador, Golden Retriever, Newfoundland, Rottweiler.
Osteochondrosis is a multifactorial disease in which genetics and nutrition play significant roles. The disease affects various breeds and each of them has a specific localization of osteochondrosis. So, in Rottweilers, OCD lesions are more common in the elbow and hock joints.
In most cases, lesions are observed from different sides. If the disease affects the articular cartilage, osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) may develop later. Cartilage stratification in osteochondrosis most often occurs in areas subject to the greatest load. In OCD, part of the articular cartilage begins to separate and may fragment. At the same time, inflammation of the joint is noted.
In puppies of large dogs with osteochondrosis, damage to the growth zones is also observed, which leads to curvature of the bones of the forearm, separation of the olecranon from the ulna and the supraglenoid process from the scapula. It has been scientifically proven that long-term consumption of an excess amount of a balanced diet or a diet rich in calcium (regardless of other components) can cause an increase in the frequency and severity of signs of osteochondrosis in puppies of large dog breeds.
Similar changes can be observed in puppies raised on a high calcium diet. There is an erroneous opinion that calcium is not superfluous, and the puppy will absorb as much calcium from the diet as he needs. In experiments, it was found that dogs receiving foods high in calcium absorb it significantly more.
In dogs with articular cartilage osteochondrosis without cartilage detachment, only non-specific clinical signs may be evident. In cases where the cartilage begins to flake off, osteoarthritis and inflammation of the subchondral bone may occur. The result is lameness.
Measurement of the circulating concentration of calcium and phosphorus does not allow to establish the ratio in the feed and the absorbability of these elements and cannot be used to support the diagnosis of osteochondrosis. Articular cartilage osteochondrosis does not always progress to OCD. However, in cases where the cartilage begins to exfoliate, surgical treatment is already required.
If osteochondrosis affects the growth zone of the bones of the forearm, the so-called. "Crooked Beam Syndrome". In crooked beam syndrome, severe shortening of the ulna may be irreversible, as may abnormal development of the wrist and/or separation of the olecranon.
Feeding correction in the early stages can positively influence the spontaneous disappearance of cartilage lesions. Osteochondrosis of the articular cartilage and growth plates may disappear, but dietary changes may not help in cases of OCD when cartilage detachment has occurred or when there is severe beam curvature.
In most of these cases, surgical correction is indicated. Feed correction involves reducing the intake of energy (proteins, fats, carbohydrates), calcium and vitamins to the minimum requirements of the dog. Medical treatment of osteochondrosis in dogs is ineffective.
findings. Not only its growth and development depend on how well a puppy eats. Puppies have good immunity and are less susceptible to diseases. Adequate supply of all nutrients and proper care: the necessary physical activity for development will help to realize the full genetic potential and lay the foundation for a long, fulfilling and healthy life for your pet. At the slightest disturbance in the development of the dog, a consultation with an orthopedic veterinarian is necessary.
Veterinarian
You may notice the first signs of a problem while walking. If they appeared after sudden movements (for example, during games), then do not consider activity to be the cause of the disease. Quicker, .
Symptoms of hind leg failure in dogs are extremely unpleasant:
- The dog cannot move normally
- Hind legs weaken and become naughty
- As a result, paralysis of the pelvic limbs or paresis may develop.
Symptoms of the disease do not always occur all at once. Sometimes in the morning the dog feels pain, and in the evening the deplorable signs and consequences of paralysis of the limbs are already obvious.
Causes and diseases leading to failure of the hind legs in dogs
The disease can cause discouragement among the owners, as everything happens quite abruptly and unexpectedly.
There can be many reasons for it:
- Limb injuries: fractures, nerve damage, tendon ruptures and sprains.
- Arthritis of the limbs
- Tumors
- spinal pathology
If the spinal cord is affected in the region of the thoracic or lumbar spine, paralysis or paresis may develop. However, injuries are also risk factors. Sometimes a sharp turn, fall, blow, bite during a fight with another individual provokes a whole chain of problems. Keep in mind that the dog may slip on the ice, jump badly or turn around. If possible, supervise your pet to reduce risk factors.
Nervous system
One of the most common causes of hind leg failure in dogs that owners face is nervous system problems.
Neurological disorders manifest themselves as follows: in the thoracolumbar spine of the dog, strong pain. Then paws are taken away, and everything shows that the animal cannot move its limbs. Eventually loss of pain sensitivity. You may notice the first signs of a problem while walking. If they appeared after sudden movements (for example, during games), then do not consider activity to be the cause of the disease. Quicker, movement provokes symptoms of an already existing problem.
This problem is more common in small and medium than large dog breeds, as well as individuals with a genetic predisposition to damage to the intervertebral discs. The main risk group is dachshunds, there is a problem in French bulldogs, Brabancons, Pekingese and other representatives of brachycephalic breeds. Most often, unpleasant changes are observed between the ages of three and eight years.
Some owners of dachshunds think that the problem lies in the long spine. However, science does not confirm this conjecture. And it is interesting that the manifestations of the disease do not always occur all at once. Sometimes in the morning the dog feels pain, and in the evening the deplorable signs and consequences of paralysis of the limbs are already obvious.
Injuries
Pathology develops in stages: first, the structure of the spinal column is disturbed at the site of injury, then edema occurs. This causes the spinal cord and radicular nerves to be compressed. The latter problem leads to the fact that the process of blood supply with oxygen is disrupted.
When this lasts for some time, nerve cells die, and nerve impulses along the peripheral nerves are blocked.
A severe injury violates the integrity of the tissue of the spinal cord, in other words, it breaks it. It is clear that this is critical for any animal, and the help of a specialist is needed.
Degenerative diseases of the spine
Sometimes the spine can simply fall under the influence of degenerative processes. This also leads to the fact that the dog's hind limbs stop working normally. In this case, metabolic processes in the tissues of the body are disturbed, and the links of the spinal column undergo pathological changes.
Spondylosis
Your dog's hind legs can also fail with so-called "local aging", or spondylosis, of certain areas of the spine. Such a disease passes rather slowly. It can be almost imperceptible at an early stage. The outer fibers of the annulus fibrosus are damaged first. Then, with the anterior longitudinal ligament, a process called calcification occurs in medicine. Beak-shaped growths appear on the spine, they are called osteophytes.
Tumors in the spine
Tumor-like processes sometimes occur in the region of the spine and in the spinal cord itself. As a result, pathologies gradually develop, and in some cases, fractures of the spinal column. If the process escalates sharply, the developing edema compresses the roots and spinal cord. This results in the following symptoms:
- weakened or compressed limbs,
- arched back,
- gait is disturbed
- the dog squeals while trying to make habitual movements,
- refuses food.
Spondylarthrosis
The joints of the spine are the weak point of a dog diagnosed with osteochondrosis. If they are subjected to static load, the joints can deform. The phenomenon is called spondylarthrosis. Uneven loads on the spinal column are also dangerous. They lead to a vertebral hernia: due to pathology, the fibrous ring changes, and as a result, the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc protrudes. The hernia compresses the radicular nerves, and sometimes the spinal cord itself.
Discopathy
Diseases of the intervertebral discs, also called discopathy, cause neurological lesions of the pelvic limbs. The disc material changes and enters the spinal canal. As a result, it is clamped:
- either the spinal cord itself,
- for the roots of the spinal nerves.
Neurological deficit is already a consequence of these processes.
When a large dog's paws fail, the problem has its own characteristics. Dobermans, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Rottweilers and similar breeds, the disease progresses gradually, over several months or years. It can be assumed that there was a lesion of the intervertebral discs - in the lumbar region or near the lumbosacral junction.
french bulldogs especially susceptible to discopathy. This is due to their unnatural anatomy, which arose due to artificial selection. The spine of this breed has become elongated, which leads to stronger loads on it. The situation is aggravated by the fact that the distance between the vertebrae is greater than normal. As a result, even at rest, the intervertebral disc may fall out, and even more so with active movement.
Dysplasia
Heavy breeds have their own trouble - diseases of the musculoskeletal system. St. Bernards, Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes characterized by intensive growth at the age of 4-10 months. This is partly why puppies of these breeds suffer from hip dysplasia.
Pay attention to the first symptoms! If the dog limps after sleeping or in a passive state in a prone position, and then “paces” during the day, these are the first signs after which it is advisable to call the veterinarian home or take the dog for an x-ray. If the dog is left untreated, the symptoms may worsen, a protracted problem may lead to the complete refusal of the animal to walk.
Osteocondritis of the spine
The most severe form of the lesion is osteochondrosis of the spine. In this case, discopathy takes on a more dangerous form - degenerative processes move from the intervertebral discs to the surrounding vertebral bodies. The ligamentous apparatus and intervertebral joints also suffer.
Here are some common causes of osteochondrosis:
- Genetic developmental defects. Because of this, the vertebrae function unstable.
- Spinal injury.
- autoimmune processes.
- Rheumatoid lesions.
- Microcirculation is disturbed, and as a result, the nutrition of the disk.
spinal pathology
Blows and bites, falls and unsuccessful jumps, as well as other adverse factors lead to spinal pathology. This phenomenon leads to paresis and paralysis. The spinal column ceases to be integral, its structure is disturbed and edema occurs. The spinal cord and radicular nerves are compressed.
What to do if the dog's hind legs fail?
If you do not have special skills, knowledge and experience, you will most likely need a veterinarian. Especially useful will be such a doctor whose profile is neurology.
Now let's look at common questions.
Is it worth contacting if the first symptoms just appeared: pain reactions to body movement, tension in gait, or refusal to move?
Yes, it's worth it. The sooner you contact, the more chances to help. Even if the alarm is false, you can take the opportunity to do a preventive examination.
If the late stage has already begun - the hind legs have failed, is it worth calling the veterinarian, or is the dog already doomed?
There are always chances. If the animal is dear to you, then try to find out what can be done in this situation. Even completely immobilized dogs were sometimes put on their feet. Another thing is that the chances in this case are less.
Practical advice for a critical situation:
- If the dog is injured and, apparently, the spine is injured, then secure it to the board with belts or bandages to deliver it to the veterinary clinic.
- If there is your four-legged friend whining and howling, and the doctor will arrive soon, do not rush to apply painkillers - it can contribute to further displacement of the vertebrae.
Common mistake. In part, the symptoms of hind leg failure in a dog may coincide with the symptoms of sciatica. As a result, instead of immobilization, a massage is done, because of which at least precious time is lost. It is also worth knowing that this problem is not amenable to self-treatment at home.
What does a veterinarian do when a dog's hind legs fail?
The procedure for the veterinarian will be something like this:
- 1. Examination and assessment of the dog's condition, diagnosis.
- 2. Checking the tactile and pain sensitivity of the limb.
- 3. Checking reflexes.
- 4. Checking the pain syndrome in the region of the spine.
- 5. Appointment of X-ray examination.
In some cases, myelography is still needed: a radiopaque substance is injected into the spinal canal, due to which even the slightest violations will be revealed in the picture. Thanks to this, the process will be as “targeted” as possible. Also, sometimes a blood and urine test is prescribed. This is done because sometimes there are concomitant pathologies: in the kidneys, heart, liver, and so on.
The tests will allow the veterinarian to make an accurate diagnosis, make the right treatment decision and determine the course of action. When it is not essential for the health of the animal, the owner himself can choose the method of treatment, but in some cases the doctor may insist on a more effective option in your situation.
Video. Paralysis of the hind legs in dogs: causes and treatment.
When a dog's hind legs fail, it becomes a real blow for the owners. Paralysis occurs suddenly, and its preliminary symptoms are so mild that they usually go unnoticed.
Complete or partial immobility of the limbs is a very dangerous condition. It is caused by many serious diseases that are poorly or not treatable at all. The sooner the owner of the pet takes action, the more likely it is that the dog will walk again.
In dogs, paresis of the hind legs (partial loss of sensation) or paralysis (complete loss of mobility) causes diseases that can develop unnoticed for a long time. Among such causes are injuries, degenerative diseases of the spine and joints, neurological pathologies.
The inability to stand up is the final symptom. It indicates the transition of the defect to the final stage of development, which is difficult to stop. Paralysis usually occurs abruptly: in the morning the dog happily ran, and after a few hours it lies down and refuses to get up.
Physical Damage
Various injuries lead to damage to the joints, bones, tendons, and nerves. Spinal injuries are especially dangerous - they change the integrity of the structure and cause swelling that puts pressure on the spinal cord and disrupts innervation.
The dog can get hurt during:
- active games;
- fights with relatives;
- car accidents - a dog can be hit by a car if it walks unattended;
- falls from a height - and the elevation does not have to be large, small breeds (toy terriers, Yorkies) are often injured by jumping off sofas, tables, chairs;
- sharp turn while running.
The most favorable outcome is if the pet simply injured its paw or its pad. In this case, he will worry, whine when he sits down, limp or drag a limb.
Discopathy
This is what is called an intervertebral hernia. This is a neurological disease.
It develops as a result of the ingress of the altered disc substance into the spinal canal, infringement of the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots.
If the hind legs fail in a dog, a hernia in the lumbar or sacral spine is suspected.
Dysplasia
Hereditary disease characteristic of large breeds. It develops due to the rapid growth of the puppy from 4 to 10 months. With pathology, thinning of the articular tissue occurs, and then - deformation of the bone structures. Most often, dysplasia affects the hip joint, which has the greatest load.
Initial symptoms are noticeable even to inexperienced owners:
- the dog begins to limp after sleeping or lying in one place for a long time;
- after a while after rest, the dog walks, and the gait becomes normal;
- during intense loads, the pet begins to wag its back;
- the pet gets tired quickly, cannot run for a long time, is wary of jumping.
Over time, destruction of the joints leads to immobility of the hind legs. It is impossible to completely cure dysplasia, you can only stop the symptoms and slow down the process.
Osteochondrosis
Severe degenerative disease associated with deformity of the vertebral cartilage.
Due to excess mineralization, it becomes harder than it should be in the norm.
Osteochondrosis of the spinal column is provoked by congenital anomalies, overweight, autoimmune processes, impaired trophism (nutrition) of tissues, and injuries. In the risk zone - small breeds of dogs, less often - medium.
Symptoms of pathology vary from the affected area. If the articular cartilage is affected, there will be:
- lameness;
- unsteady gait;
- braiding paws;
- inability to sit - the pet can expose the hind paw for support.
When osteochondrosis spreads to the intervertebral discs, the symptoms worsen:
- discomfort when moving;
- decrease or complete loss of sensation in the extremities;
- in advanced cases, it leads to the fact that the dog's hind legs are taken away.
Arthrosis and arthritis
Characterized by the destruction of joints and cartilage. Diseases differ from each other in etiology - arthritis develops against the background of inflammation.
Cause arthritis or arthrosis hypothermia, malnutrition, little or excessive exercise, injury, obesity, age-related changes.
Often, pathologies appear after long intensive walks. The dog begins to wobble backwards, falls to the ground, refuses to walk. After a while, she can get back on her feet, but this condition is a reason to sound the alarm.
Spondylosis
It develops in older dogs, when individual fragments of the spine begin to "age" and weaken.
To strengthen bone structures, the body builds up spurs - osteophytes. Formations are usually localized in the thoracic and lumbar region.
Spondylosis takes a long time, rarely causes severe pain. But sometimes it pinches the nerve roots and the dog can be completely paralyzed.
Tumors of the spine
Cysts, benign and oncological formations in the spine or nearby provoke swelling, compression of nerve endings, and cartilage deformation.
Changes appear:
- paresis or paralysis of the hind legs;
- atypical gait;
- arched back;
- inability to empty the bladder and intestines, walking under oneself.
Pain is added to these symptoms. The dog squeals when changing the position of the body, during games, sharp touches on the back.
Viral diseases
Loss of paw mobility in a dog can develop due to dangerous viruses - canine distemper or rabies. At risk are unvaccinated animals that are constantly in contact with stray dogs and wild animals - foxes, raccoons, bats.
With distemper and rabies, the pet will have a staggering, “drunk” gait. The symptom occurs in the later stages of the development of the disease, when it is almost impossible to cure the dog. Additional common signs for both diseases: vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, cough.
What causes puppies to drag their paws
In puppies, the reasons for the failure of the hind legs are:
- rickets- if the baby was taken away from the mother early or was underfed;
- congenital pathologies– defects of joints and bones, cerebral palsy;
- muscle underdevelopment- they atrophy when the puppy is kept in a cramped room, not allowing to move.
Why does a pregnant dog fall on its paws?
Pupping bitches sometimes move with difficulty or constantly squat. The behavior is explained by three factors:
- large offspring;
- the dog bears very large puppies;
- early childbirth - a pet can fall on its paws during contractions.
You don't have to worry too much. But it will not be superfluous to call a veterinarian to assess the condition of the bitch. It is desirable that the doctor was present at the birth.
If the dog's legs were taken away - what should be done and what should not be done?
No home methods will help if the dog's paws are taken away. She should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.
It is advisable to pay attention to the early symptoms of paresis - anxiety, stoop, lameness, refusal to play, rapid fatigue. The sooner the disease is diagnosed, the more successful the treatment will be.
It is not worth delaying a visit to the doctor. Even a slight limp can eventually turn into complete paralysis and the dog will have to be euthanized. It is advisable to contact a veterinarian specializing in neurological pathologies.
In case of loss of sensation of the limbs, it is strictly prohibited:
- apply cold or heat to the affected areas;
- massage the spine or paws;
- to force the dog to move - it is better to pick it up and bring it home or to the clinic in your arms.
If you suspect a spinal injury, you must ensure absolute immobility. A board is carefully placed under the pet (you can ask two other people to gently lift the dog) and tie it with bandages, ribbons or straps.
It is impossible to give painkillers - if the pain subsides, the dog will begin to move, which will lead to displacement of the vertebrae.
Features of treatment for limb failure
To identify pathology, the veterinarian conducts:
- visual examination - assessment of the general condition, checking sensitivity, reflexes and pain reactions;
- X-ray examination or MRI;
- myelography - x-ray examination with a contrast agent;
- general clinical analyzes of urine and blood.
Further treatment tactics differ significantly from the disease that caused immobility.
Treatment is usually prescribed:
- Operational. Surgical intervention is performed to eliminate the provoking factor.
- Physiotherapy. Complements surgical and medical treatment.
- Medical. Prescribe special drugs, different for each type of disease.
It can be:
- antibiotics;
- antispasmodics;
- analgesics;
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
- immunomodulators;
- drugs that improve nerve conduction, blood supply and regeneration.
Regardless of the type of disease and the prescribed therapy, it is necessary to draw up a special diet. All foods should be easily digestible and nutritious, contain a lot of calcium, selenium, sulfur, protein, fatty acids.
What breeds are at risk?
Some breeds have their paws taken away more often than others. This is due to strict selection, a violent change in the skeleton for the sake of working or decorative qualities.
Usually, leg failure occurs in young and adult pets at 3-8 years old, less often in puppies.
Arthrosis or spondelosis makes itself felt in old dogs - at 11 - 14 years old and older.
Subject to paralysis:
- dogs with a long body - dachshunds, bassets;
- brachycephals - pugs, bulldogs (English and French), Pekingese, Brabancons, boxers, sharpei;
- large breeds - St. Bernards, Great Danes, Shepherds, Labradors, Alabai.
Measures to prevent paresis of the hind legs
To prevent paralysis of the limbs, follow the recommendations:
- carry out once a year an x-ray examination of breeds that are at risk;
- periodically give puppies and adult dogs of large breeds chondoprotectors;
- make sure that up to 12 months dachshunds, bassets and large pets do not jump from a height;
- up to six months, all puppies are carried in their arms while descending the stairs;
- control loads - both insufficient and excessive are harmful;
- monitor the weight of the pet;
- make up a complete diet;
- avoid potentially traumatic situations;
- do not leave the dog to lie or sleep in a draft, so that it does not chill the spine.
It is impossible to completely protect the dog from the failure of the hind legs. But these measures will reduce the risk of paralysis at times.
It is important to carefully choose a puppy: during the inspection, you need to pay attention to how he moves, runs, plays.
You need to purchase a baby from a trusted breeder who will present a pedigree, passports and a medical certificate of the crumbs and his parents.