Hello there! I'm sorry to hear about your dog's struggle. When a dog is having trouble bearing weight on their hind legs, it can be concerning. There are a few potential causes for this issue, ranging from minor to more serious.
Common reasons might include a sprain or strain, arthritis, or even a slipped disc in their spine. In some cases, there might be an injury, like a torn ligament, or even an infection that could be causing discomfort.
At home, you can help your dog by ensuring they rest and avoid jumping or running, which might aggravate the issue. You can also make their resting area cozy with soft bedding to encourage them to lay down. Keeping food and water close to them can prevent unnecessary movement. Ice packs wrapped in a cloth, applied briefly to the affected area, can reduce swelling if you suspect a recent injury.
However, watch out for signs like severe pain, swelling, inability to move, or changes in your dog's mood or appetite. These may indicate a more serious problem requiring professional attention.
Given your concerns, I recommend booking a video consult with us at Dial A Vet to discuss the symptoms in more detail. This way, we can better tailor our advice to your dog's needs and ensure they get the care they deserve.
Injured dog struggling to bear weight on hind legs
I'm feeling really stressed and could use some advice. My sweet boy, Max, seemed fine this morning, but after our usual walk, he started limping and now can’t seem to bear weight on his hind legs. It’s breaking my heart to see him in pain like this. He’s a six-year-old Golden Retriever, always been super active and healthy. I checked his paws and legs and couldn't see anything obviously wrong. He’s eating and drinking as usual, but he’s definitely not his energetic self. The soonest vet appointment we could get is in two days because our local vet is so booked up, and I’m worried sick. Has anyone experienced something like this with their dog? Are there any ways I can help make him more comfortable until we see the vet? Anything I should watch out for that would mean a trip to the emergency clinic is necessary? Thanks in advance for any advice or support.
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