What causes hind leg weakness and wheezing in my senior dog?

Question

My 11 year old miniature Schneider has recently started having issues with his hind legs. Most of the time he is fine but sometimes he acts like he can't really move much. He won't jump when this happens and normally he's active. Tonight he was kind of wheezing while he was barely walking. Almost like he was about to throw up but didnt. This happens about once every couple of weeks. Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Male | neutered | 11 years and 3 months old | 20 lbs

Jeffrey Milner · Accepted Answer

Based on Riley's age and the clinical signs, it sounds like he may be experiencing at least one but possibly two issues. An 11 year old almost always had some level of arthritis. Some dogs just have more than others. It is not uncommon for older dogs to start requiring joint supplements or non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs to help them have increased mobility as they get older. In order to confirm this, he should be seen by a vet who can palpate the hind legs. They can make sure they don't feel anything out of the ordinary, and can also shoot x rays if they things it is warranted. In terms of the wheezing you are seeing occasionally, it is possible that this is also just another old age change. As dog's get older, their lung's structure and vasculature also tend to change sometimes making breathing a little more challenging. The wheezing could also be a sign of some sort of cardiorespiratory condition. If he is having serious trouble getting around or getting up during these episodes, a chest x ray with your veterinarian would probably be very helpful in ruling in or out several different possibilities. Both the arthritis and cardiorespiratory disease are generally symptomatically treatable.

What causes hind leg weakness and wheezing in my senior dog?

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