What causes a dog's back legs to give out?
Quick Answer
The most common cause of a dog's back legs giving out is a herniated or ruptured intervertebral disc, according to the College of Veterinary Medicine at University of Missouri. A condition known as degenerative myelopathy, a slow, progressive disorder that affects the spine in older dogs, also causes weakness and paralysis.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
Paralysis in dogs occurs when any part of the animal's nervous system is damaged enough to cause a disruption in the communication between the brain and the legs. Herniated discs in a dog's spine, especially in breeds that are low to the ground with long backs such as the Dachshund and Basset Hound, can cause weakness and paralysis, notes petMD.
Degenerative myelopathy is a disease of the spinal cord that typically appears in older dogs around seven or eight and may cause complete paralysis within six months to a year, explains University of Missouri. It can occur first in one limb, and then appear in the other, until the dog may be forced to drag its hind legs. Degenerative myelopathy can also cause urinary and fecal incontinence. Breeds particularly prone to this disease include the Welsh Corgi, German Shepherd and Boxer. A veterinarian uses diagnostic tools such as X-rays or MRIs to determine if a dog is showing signs of a slipped disc. Other causes of paralysis include injuries, infections, strokes, tumors and cysts.
Learn more about DogsRelated Questions
-
Q:
How can you cure bad breath in a dog?
A: Although there are multiple causes of bad breath in dogs, the most common cause is dental or gum disease. To cure bad breath from dental or gum disease, br... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How do I give a schnauzer a haircut?
A: To give a Schnauzer a haircut, clip the hair along the dog's back and flanks, brush and trim the legs, clip the throat and chest, clip the face and ears, a... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What does it mean when a dog licks another dog on the back?
A: While animal experts have not yet determined the exact signal sent by one dog licking another dog on the back, these experts have determined that when one ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why is my dog limping on his front leg?
A: According to VCA Animal Hospitals, when dogs limp on their front legs, it is a common sign of osteochondritis. This medical condition is also referred to a... Full Answer >Filed Under:
You May Also Like
-
Q:
Do dogs have whiskers?
-
Q:
How do you install a wood dog box in the bed of a truck?
-
Q:
What are some methods of nail care for dogs?
-
Q:
Where can you get Black and Tan Coonhound puppies?
-
Q:
How do you adopt a rescued Doberman?
-
Q:
How can I get a tea cup chihuahua from an organization that rescues dogs?
