Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!Vet Tips - By Our Vets!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Dog has episodes of hind leg paralysis and recent behavioral changes

I’m really worried about my dog, Bailey. Lately, she's been having these strange episodes where her back legs suddenly go limp, and she struggles to stand up. It's like she can't control them, and it's heartbreaking to watch. She's always been such an active and happy pup, but now she seems scared and confused whenever it happens. It’s also come with some behavioral changes; she’s become a lot more anxious and clingy, which is so unlike her. She used to be super independent and playful. We’ve been to the vet, but tests aren’t showing anything definitive yet. I'm at a loss and feel helpless seeing her like this. Has anyone else experienced something like this with their fur babies? Any advice or suggestions would be deeply appreciated.

Answer:

Thanks for your question! I'm sorry to hear about your dog's recent issues. Let's discuss what might be happening.



Hind leg paralysis in dogs can arise from several causes. One possibility is a slipped disc in the spine, which can compress the nerves and affect mobility. Another potential cause is a condition called degenerative myelopathy, which slowly affects nerve function over time. Trauma or accidents are other factors that may lead to such symptoms. Behavioral changes may accompany these issues due to discomfort or pain.



At home, try to keep your dog comfortable and limit activities that might exacerbate the condition, like running or jumping. Creating a safe, calm environment can be very helpful.



Observe your dog closely. If you notice pain when being touched or moved, dragging or complete inability to move the hind legs, loss of bladder or bowel control, or extreme lethargy, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately, as these could indicate serious issues.



I recommend booking a video consultation with a vet through Dial A Vet, so we can assess your dog's situation more closely and guide you on the next steps. We're here to help get your furry friend back to feeling their best!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 26, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Dog may have eaten bone on walk
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Is Tidy Cat unscented and Fresh step unscented good cat litter?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cat over grooming for 1.5 years: allergies or compulsive behavior? Allergy test positive pics on a different post
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Afraid to have my cat's dental cleaning done this week due to risk of anesthesia death. What are some questions I should ask before committing?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support - anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicAsk A Vet: Q&AGlossary
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links