Why is my German Shepherd having trouble walking?

Degenerative Myelopathy is a debilitating condition for which there is no cure but only the potential to slow down the progress. The occurs typically in older German Shepherd Dogs. Degenerative myelopathy starts out as a very slowly progressive hind limb weakness and loss of function of the back legs called paresis.

Why is my dog suddenly having trouble walking?

Numerous neurological conditions can result in your dog having trouble walking. These include degenerative disc disease, degenerative myelopathy, myasthenia gravis and myositis. Your veterinarian will be able to examine your dog in order to determine what is causing him to have trouble walking.

Why do German shepherds lose their back legs?

Degenerative myelopathy is a nerve disease that starts in a dog’s spinal cord. If your German Shepherd suffers from degenerative myelopathy, you’ll begin to notice them losing motor function in their hind legs. The dog might also struggle to get up because the disease causes muscles to atrophy.

What causes sudden hind leg weakness in dogs?

“Sudden hind limb weakness or paralysis can be a clinical sign of several conditions, including degenerative myelopathy, in which parts of the nerves in the spinal cord responsible for hind limb mobility degenerate,” begins Dr. He explains that this occurs when bulging discs put pressure on the dog’s spinal column.

At what age do German Shepherds start having hip problems?

Some dogs begin to show signs of hip dysplasia when they are as young as four months of age. Others develop it in conjunction with osteoarthritis as they age. In both cases, there are a few symptoms that owners should be familiar with.

How can I strengthen my German Shepherds back legs?

Walking is a great way to strengthen your dog’s back legs. If you’re walking your pet, keep it slow and short. After all, a long walk could end up doing more harm than good. You could take your dog for a swim or try stretching your pet’s hind legs for more strength.

How do you know if your German Shepherd has hip dysplasia?

Symptoms include a “bunny hop” gait, limping, lameness in the hind legs, and decreased range of motion, among others. The severity also ranges from mild to extreme pain—some German shepherds even have to use a wheelchair.

Why is my dog having trouble walking with his back legs?

Degenerative myelopathy occurs when your pet’s nerve sheath degenerates. When this sheath breaks down, your dog’s nerves will fail to work properly. Your pet could have degenerative myelopathy if they’re experiencing any of the following: Quivering hind legs.

What are the first signs of degenerative myelopathy in dogs?

The first signs of degenerative myelopathy generally develop at around eight years of age, although the onset may be later in life in some dogs. Weakness and loss of co-ordination in one or both of the hind limbs (back legs) is often the initial sign, followed by dragging and scuffing of the digits (toes).

What are the first signs of hip dysplasia in dogs?

Common Symptoms of Hip Dysplasia

Lethargy. Lethargy is a common symptom associated with hip dysplasia.
Difficulty Moving. If your dog has trouble moving around, this may be another indicator that he has hip dysplasia.
Hind End Lameness.
Loss of Muscle in the Thigh.
Unusual Gait.
Stiffness and Pain.
Diagnosing Hip Dysplasia.