Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my German Shepherd bunny hopping, licking paw, and struggling?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | neutered | 2 years and 4 months old | 70 lbs

My iPad is a German shepherd purebred and his name is Cyprus and he has been experience some back leg issues he has been bunny hopping outside and hugging the right side of stairs also he's been licking his front paw a lot and it's only one paw specifically his left I believe but other than that he's been fine.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on August 20th, 2017

Cyprus is handsome! Him being a German Shepard and having a bunny hopping gait I'm concerned he may have hip dysplasia. That is poor hip conformation with joint laxity that will cause painful arthritis over time. Often dogs with hip dysplasia have one rear leg that is worse causing a lameness, and they often shift weight to the front legs that can cause them to be sore too. This can be diagnosed with an examination of his hips and X-rays. Dogs that are uncomfortable respond well to dog pain medication and steady daily exercise is good to keep up the rear leg muscles. It's best to limit running, jumping and rough housing with the other dogs so he doesn't get sore. Keeping him on the thin side so he's not carrying excess weight will help reduce his joint pain. There are also many joint supplements for joint health that your veterinarian will recommend. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Cyprus.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How do I safely fix my dog or cat's painful hangnail at home?
Ouch! Does your pet have a painful hangnail? Dr. Melanie, a certified veterinarian, provides expert guidance on safe trimming or when to seek professional vet care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored