![\"Dog-Is-Having-Trouble-Standing-and-Walking\"](\"https:\/\/pupsterpassion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Dog-Is-Having-Trouble-Standing-and-Walking.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nDogs tend to be very active and energetic creatures, which is why it can be so startling and concerning if you notice that your canine companion has begun struggling when they attempt to stand up or walk.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Rather than panic, you can read our informative guide, which will explain six of the most common causes of these relatively common issues. Better yet, we will explain what you should do to help your pooch overcome its recent troubles.<\/p>\n
6 Reasons Why Dogs Have Trouble Standing and Walking<\/strong><\/h2>\nBefore we get into the most common causes for standing and walking issues<\/a>, you must make the differentiation between difficulty moving and a complete inability to do so.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Your dog needs veterinary attention immediately if it cannot stand or walk. This is because it could signify a serious and even life-threatening issue. When a dog cannot stand or walk unassisted, it becomes a quality-of-life issue and needs to be addressed immediately.<\/p>\n
On the other hand, if your dog is just having trouble standing and walking, meaning they seem more strained than usual, the following causes could be responsible:<\/p>\n
1. Canine Arthritis and Other Joint Pain Issues<\/strong><\/h3>\n![\"Dogs-Canine-Arthritis\"](\"https:\/\/pupsterpassion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Dogs-Canine-Arthritis.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nLike humans, dogs are susceptible to various joint-related issues, including arthritis<\/a>. These issues tend to become more prominent with an old dog but can also occur due to an injury.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Certain breeds are also more susceptible to joint pain and arthritis than others. The same is true for overweight and obese dogs. Unfortunately, certain species also tend to develop these debilitating conditions at a young age than breeds less prone to joint issues.<\/p>\n
Canine arthritis causes severe inflammation within the joints, which can cause severe pain when the dog attempts to move the impacted joints. As you would expect, this can significantly reduce a dog\u2019s movements, as each step can become very painful.<\/p>\n
Joint pain and arthritis that impacts a dog\u2019s ability to stand and walk tend to be located in the hips and elbows. Elbow and hip dysplasia are similar to arthritis, reducing a dog\u2019s ability to move correctly.<\/p>\n
For more information about canine arthritis, consider reading the American Kennel Club\u2019s informative guide \u2013 Osteoarthritis in Dogs \u2013 Signs and Treatments<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
What should you do if your dog struggles to stand and walk due to joint issues?<\/strong><\/h4>\nIf you suspect joint issues are responsible for your dog\u2019s struggles, the first step is to take them to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.<\/p>\n
Your vet could recommend various treatment options, including prescription pain medications, a weight loss program, and modified exercise routines. Certain supplements, like glucosamine and chondroitin, can help with joint deterioration and pain.\u00a0<\/p>\n
2. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)<\/strong><\/h3>\nAnother painful and debilitating condition that can make it difficult for dogs to walk and stand is intervertebral disc disease.<\/p>\n
At its most severe, this condition causes weak back legs and can even lead to sudden paralysis. In many cases, it causes the dog\u2019s hind legs to collapse. IVDD occurs when the soft cushioning between the bones within the spine becomes damaged or compressed.\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
When this occurs, the nerves within the spine and the spinal cord can be pinched, which can cause pain and even complete paralysis. IVDD can also be referred to as a slipped or herniated disc. In most cases, IVDD occurs due to a back or neck injury; however, certain breeds are also prone to the condition.<\/p>\n
Breeds with long backs, like a dachshund, corgi, or basset hound, are usually the most susceptible to IVDD. With that said, all types of dogs can experience IVDD. Overweight dogs are also at a much higher risk of the condition, as the added weight strains the spinal column.\u00a0<\/p>\n
For more information about IVDD and potential treatments for affected dogs, consider reading Broad Street Veterinary Hospital\u2019s guide \u2013 What is IVDD in Dogs? \u2013 Answers About Surgery, Costs, and Recovery<\/a>.<\/p>\nWhat should you do if your dog struggles to stand and walk due to IVDD?<\/strong><\/h4>\nYou need to take your dog to a veterinary clinic immediately. This very dangerous condition needs to be treated as soon as possible. It is a time-sensitive issue and can quickly lead to other dangerous health issues.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Depending on the diagnosis, your veterinarian may recommend surgery; however, rehabilitation training can also help in certain situations.\u00a0<\/p>\n
3. A Physical Injury to a Paw or Leg<\/strong><\/h3>\n![\"dog-injured-Wound-on-paw\"](\"https:\/\/pupsterpassion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/dog-injured-Wound-on-paw-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nA physical injury is one of the most apparent reasons dogs struggle to stand and walk. If your dog seems strained when they stand or walk, they may have hurt a paw, leg, or even their back.<\/p>\n
Injuries can range in severity and how long they inhibit a dog\u2019s movement. Superficial blisters, cuts, and splinters are relatively easy to resolve, and most dogs struggle through the pain. On the other hand, severe injuries, like broken bones, can be incredibly debilitating.<\/p>\n
If the dog is completely refusing to move or is yelping in pain when they do so, there is a good chance that the injury is serious. It is probably a reasonably mild injury if they walk with a slightly abnormal gait or are somewhat limping.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
What should you do if an injury is causing your dog to struggle when they walk and stand?<\/strong><\/h4>\nThe first step is identifying the injury and its severity. Carefully and gently inspect the dog\u2019s legs and paws for apparent signs of damage. The dog may pull away when you touch a particular leg or paw.<\/p>\n
If it is a severe injury, visit a veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment plan. In the meantime, reduce the amount of movement your dog needs to do.<\/p>\n
4. A Neurological Disorder<\/strong><\/h3>\n![\"Dogs-neurological-Disorder\"](\"https:\/\/pupsterpassion.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Dogs-neurological-Disorder.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nVarious neurological disorders and even head trauma can impact a dog\u2019s ability to stand and walk. In many cases, disruptions to a dog\u2019s ability to stand, walk, and sit down are the earliest signs that the dog is developing a neurological disorder.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Your dog needs veterinary attention immediately if it cannot stand or walk. This is because it could signify a serious and even life-threatening issue. When a dog cannot stand or walk unassisted, it becomes a quality-of-life issue and needs to be addressed immediately.<\/p>\n
On the other hand, if your dog is just having trouble standing and walking, meaning they seem more strained than usual, the following causes could be responsible:<\/p>\n
1. Canine Arthritis and Other Joint Pain Issues<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/figure>\nLike humans, dogs are susceptible to various joint-related issues, including arthritis<\/a>. These issues tend to become more prominent with an old dog but can also occur due to an injury.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Certain breeds are also more susceptible to joint pain and arthritis than others. The same is true for overweight and obese dogs. Unfortunately, certain species also tend to develop these debilitating conditions at a young age than breeds less prone to joint issues.<\/p>\n
Canine arthritis causes severe inflammation within the joints, which can cause severe pain when the dog attempts to move the impacted joints. As you would expect, this can significantly reduce a dog\u2019s movements, as each step can become very painful.<\/p>\n
Joint pain and arthritis that impacts a dog\u2019s ability to stand and walk tend to be located in the hips and elbows. Elbow and hip dysplasia are similar to arthritis, reducing a dog\u2019s ability to move correctly.<\/p>\n
For more information about canine arthritis, consider reading the American Kennel Club\u2019s informative guide \u2013 Osteoarthritis in Dogs \u2013 Signs and Treatments<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
What should you do if your dog struggles to stand and walk due to joint issues?<\/strong><\/h4>\nIf you suspect joint issues are responsible for your dog\u2019s struggles, the first step is to take them to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.<\/p>\n
Your vet could recommend various treatment options, including prescription pain medications, a weight loss program, and modified exercise routines. Certain supplements, like glucosamine and chondroitin, can help with joint deterioration and pain.\u00a0<\/p>\n
2. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)<\/strong><\/h3>\nAnother painful and debilitating condition that can make it difficult for dogs to walk and stand is intervertebral disc disease.<\/p>\n
At its most severe, this condition causes weak back legs and can even lead to sudden paralysis. In many cases, it causes the dog\u2019s hind legs to collapse. IVDD occurs when the soft cushioning between the bones within the spine becomes damaged or compressed.\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
When this occurs, the nerves within the spine and the spinal cord can be pinched, which can cause pain and even complete paralysis. IVDD can also be referred to as a slipped or herniated disc. In most cases, IVDD occurs due to a back or neck injury; however, certain breeds are also prone to the condition.<\/p>\n
Breeds with long backs, like a dachshund, corgi, or basset hound, are usually the most susceptible to IVDD. With that said, all types of dogs can experience IVDD. Overweight dogs are also at a much higher risk of the condition, as the added weight strains the spinal column.\u00a0<\/p>\n
For more information about IVDD and potential treatments for affected dogs, consider reading Broad Street Veterinary Hospital\u2019s guide \u2013 What is IVDD in Dogs? \u2013 Answers About Surgery, Costs, and Recovery<\/a>.<\/p>\nWhat should you do if your dog struggles to stand and walk due to IVDD?<\/strong><\/h4>\nYou need to take your dog to a veterinary clinic immediately. This very dangerous condition needs to be treated as soon as possible. It is a time-sensitive issue and can quickly lead to other dangerous health issues.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Depending on the diagnosis, your veterinarian may recommend surgery; however, rehabilitation training can also help in certain situations.\u00a0<\/p>\n
3. A Physical Injury to a Paw or Leg<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/figure>\nA physical injury is one of the most apparent reasons dogs struggle to stand and walk. If your dog seems strained when they stand or walk, they may have hurt a paw, leg, or even their back.<\/p>\n
Injuries can range in severity and how long they inhibit a dog\u2019s movement. Superficial blisters, cuts, and splinters are relatively easy to resolve, and most dogs struggle through the pain. On the other hand, severe injuries, like broken bones, can be incredibly debilitating.<\/p>\n
If the dog is completely refusing to move or is yelping in pain when they do so, there is a good chance that the injury is serious. It is probably a reasonably mild injury if they walk with a slightly abnormal gait or are somewhat limping.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
What should you do if an injury is causing your dog to struggle when they walk and stand?<\/strong><\/h4>\nThe first step is identifying the injury and its severity. Carefully and gently inspect the dog\u2019s legs and paws for apparent signs of damage. The dog may pull away when you touch a particular leg or paw.<\/p>\n
If it is a severe injury, visit a veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment plan. In the meantime, reduce the amount of movement your dog needs to do.<\/p>\n
4. A Neurological Disorder<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/figure>\nVarious neurological disorders and even head trauma can impact a dog\u2019s ability to stand and walk. In many cases, disruptions to a dog\u2019s ability to stand, walk, and sit down are the earliest signs that the dog is developing a neurological disorder.<\/p>\n
<\/figure>\nLike humans, dogs are susceptible to various joint-related issues, including arthritis<\/a>. These issues tend to become more prominent with an old dog but can also occur due to an injury.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Certain breeds are also more susceptible to joint pain and arthritis than others. The same is true for overweight and obese dogs. Unfortunately, certain species also tend to develop these debilitating conditions at a young age than breeds less prone to joint issues.<\/p>\n Canine arthritis causes severe inflammation within the joints, which can cause severe pain when the dog attempts to move the impacted joints. As you would expect, this can significantly reduce a dog\u2019s movements, as each step can become very painful.<\/p>\n Joint pain and arthritis that impacts a dog\u2019s ability to stand and walk tend to be located in the hips and elbows. Elbow and hip dysplasia are similar to arthritis, reducing a dog\u2019s ability to move correctly.<\/p>\n For more information about canine arthritis, consider reading the American Kennel Club\u2019s informative guide \u2013 Osteoarthritis in Dogs \u2013 Signs and Treatments<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n If you suspect joint issues are responsible for your dog\u2019s struggles, the first step is to take them to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.<\/p>\n Your vet could recommend various treatment options, including prescription pain medications, a weight loss program, and modified exercise routines. Certain supplements, like glucosamine and chondroitin, can help with joint deterioration and pain.\u00a0<\/p>\n Another painful and debilitating condition that can make it difficult for dogs to walk and stand is intervertebral disc disease.<\/p>\n At its most severe, this condition causes weak back legs and can even lead to sudden paralysis. In many cases, it causes the dog\u2019s hind legs to collapse. IVDD occurs when the soft cushioning between the bones within the spine becomes damaged or compressed.\u00a0<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When this occurs, the nerves within the spine and the spinal cord can be pinched, which can cause pain and even complete paralysis. IVDD can also be referred to as a slipped or herniated disc. In most cases, IVDD occurs due to a back or neck injury; however, certain breeds are also prone to the condition.<\/p>\n Breeds with long backs, like a dachshund, corgi, or basset hound, are usually the most susceptible to IVDD. With that said, all types of dogs can experience IVDD. Overweight dogs are also at a much higher risk of the condition, as the added weight strains the spinal column.\u00a0<\/p>\n For more information about IVDD and potential treatments for affected dogs, consider reading Broad Street Veterinary Hospital\u2019s guide \u2013 What is IVDD in Dogs? \u2013 Answers About Surgery, Costs, and Recovery<\/a>.<\/p>\n You need to take your dog to a veterinary clinic immediately. This very dangerous condition needs to be treated as soon as possible. It is a time-sensitive issue and can quickly lead to other dangerous health issues.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Depending on the diagnosis, your veterinarian may recommend surgery; however, rehabilitation training can also help in certain situations.\u00a0<\/p>\n A physical injury is one of the most apparent reasons dogs struggle to stand and walk. If your dog seems strained when they stand or walk, they may have hurt a paw, leg, or even their back.<\/p>\n Injuries can range in severity and how long they inhibit a dog\u2019s movement. Superficial blisters, cuts, and splinters are relatively easy to resolve, and most dogs struggle through the pain. On the other hand, severe injuries, like broken bones, can be incredibly debilitating.<\/p>\n If the dog is completely refusing to move or is yelping in pain when they do so, there is a good chance that the injury is serious. It is probably a reasonably mild injury if they walk with a slightly abnormal gait or are somewhat limping.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The first step is identifying the injury and its severity. Carefully and gently inspect the dog\u2019s legs and paws for apparent signs of damage. The dog may pull away when you touch a particular leg or paw.<\/p>\n If it is a severe injury, visit a veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment plan. In the meantime, reduce the amount of movement your dog needs to do.<\/p>\n Various neurological disorders and even head trauma can impact a dog\u2019s ability to stand and walk. In many cases, disruptions to a dog\u2019s ability to stand, walk, and sit down are the earliest signs that the dog is developing a neurological disorder.<\/p>\nWhat should you do if your dog struggles to stand and walk due to joint issues?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
2. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What should you do if your dog struggles to stand and walk due to IVDD?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
3. A Physical Injury to a Paw or Leg<\/strong><\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\nWhat should you do if an injury is causing your dog to struggle when they walk and stand?<\/strong><\/h4>\n
4. A Neurological Disorder<\/strong><\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\n