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Why does my Labrador struggle to stand and stagger on her hind legs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 4 years old

My Labrador struggles to rise after laying down and then her hind leg goes inwards for a while and looks like she is staggering, it wears off aftercare couple of minutes, eating fine and looking and seeing fine.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 14th, 2017

Poor Boo sounds like she is in pain! Hip dysplasia is common in large breed dogs like Labs, and it could cause her difficult standing up. I would have her seen by a vet in the morning for a lameness exam and x-rays. These tests will help identify what is causing her problems getting how up and how best to treat it. The vet may prescribe her pain medications if they feel it's needed. Please do not give Boo any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    Poor Boo! This could be caused by a number of different things, such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or a neurologic disorder affecting her rear leg. I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam when you are able to - he/she can do a complete orthopedic exam and take some x-rays to help diagnose the problem, and will let you know what can be done to treat her depending on what is found.

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