My 11 mo. old Shih Tzu woke up this morning with weak back legs, and cannot move around.?

Question

He will eat some and drink a little water, but cannot hold himself up long enough to potty or anything. I have a Vet. apt. later today. This was sudden, does anyone have any idea what could be wrong? He was fine until this morning.

I thought about Hip Dysplaisia, but this happened so fast. Vet will help this afternoon I am sure. Thanks all for your answers.

To all who answered me, thanks. Back from Vet. Our Pup has a bad hip, and may have to have surgery in future, but for now has meds and is much better.

Answer 1

Weakness in the back legs can be a sign of a problem with the spine. It’s common in some breeds. Treatments range from steroids and keeping the dog as still as possible, to extremely expensive surgery. These treatments are not always successful and you can end up with a paralyzed dog very easily. A problem like this in such a young dog would be unusual, but not unheard of.

I hope it turns out to be something minor. I have a dachshund, a breed extremely prone to paralyzing back injuries, so I live in constant fear of just such a morning when I’ll wake up and she suddenly won’t be able to use her back legs.

I wish you luck.

Answer 2

Same thing happened to my Peke one day. All of a sudden he couldn't use his back legs. Our vet said he had a slipped disc in his back. Its common in breeds with elongated backs.

I hope everything turns out good for your pup.

Answer 3

It sounds like a( CVA) basically a stroke. Take her to the vet it may be time to put her down.

Answer 4

do your self and your dog a favor and do not listen to any one but your vet.

Answer 5

could be a pinch nerve. if he is pure bred, do you know if anyone in it's line ever had hipdisplacia(sp?)?

Answer 6

ok i think since i have a rabbit that heneeds alot of milk and nutrition . im not saying that u dont feed him but hes only 11 month old.