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My large dog struggles to walk. What are non-surgical knee options?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 4 years and 5 months old | 120 lbs

Hello there, I am looking for an expert HONEST opinion about my dog's knee condition...she is only 4 years old, and can barely walk (hind legs). A mastiff-bulldog mix, cca 130 lbs, ( on a special vet diet) spayed female. Motility problems started cca 18 months ago. I am attaching 3 x-rays. Is this a progressive illness and what is your recommendation (no surgeries). Thank you.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on June 2nd, 2017

Where surgical treatment is not an option then the alternative options are: pain relief medications; joint care diets (hills); strict weight management; physiotherapy; acupuncture; chiropractic care and possibly steroid injections. It is important to assess her quality of life and comfort levels to ensure she is not suffering undue pain

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