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Why is my 4-year-old dog walking with splayed back legs and low butt?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 80 lbs

My 4 year old dog is having trouble walking. He walks with his back legs set far apart and butt curved down toward the floor, but not all the time. He has had HGE about a year ago and it started not long after then. At first I thought it was hip displaysia, but he is walking with his legs far apart, not close together, as is typical. What could possibly cause this ?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on June 13th, 2017

Pozzy may be having trouble with his back. Intervertebral disc disease may look like this. I would advise to get some radiographs done to see how the vertebra looks. If there is no obvious cause, a consult with a neurologist may be indicated. There may also be physical therapy exercises that may help as well. He would be young but degenerative myelopathy could also be a factor. The doctor should be able to get a better idea based on a physical exam.

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