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Why is my dog's back leg stiff when I try to straighten it out?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 8 years and 5 months old | 4 lbs

Why is one of her back legs easier to pull straightly when she's laying down? The other one stretches so easily & the other it's like she's holding her leg back in the best position. She not acting like she's in pain, she runs really fast & jumps off of things. She has a luxating patella but it's not bad nor does it hold her back from anything. Is she probably just annoyed at how much I check her for anything?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 5th, 2017

If one leg is harder to extend it could indicate early arthritis or it may simply be that she is holding it back tighter. I wouldn't worry if she is moving about fine, but you could always have the vet check it out. It might be worth starting her on a joint supplement with glucosamine and chondroitin.

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