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Why is my dog's back leg hurting and he's struggling with stairs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 8 years and 10 months old

Yesterday, toward the end of the night, my dog started showing signs of pain in his back legs/hips. He is hesitant to walk or climb stairs and moves very slowly. I didn't notice him do anything specific to hurt it. He is a bichon/Lhasa ahpso mix.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on June 27th, 2017

Poor Jax. He may have tweak his hips or back. As long as he is eating and drinking you could try to rest him for a few days to see if he improves. If he worsens or not improving, I would see your vet for an exam and possible X-rays. Your vet may want to make sure there is nothing broken and make sure his spine looks ok. Also your vet will be able to give him some pain meds to keep him comfortable. I would not give any human pain meds as most are toxic to dogs. I hope this helps.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Being a mix with a Lhasa Apso makes intervertebral disk disease quite likely and an immediate check up would be ideally needed to confirm this suspicion with a neurological and physical examination and treat appropriately. Any other soft tissue or bone trauma is possible as well. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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