Why is my senior dog gnawing her back, has scabs, and legs buckle?

Question

13 year old small lab mix gnawing at one location on her back/butt over the last few days. I checked the area and there are black and white scabs around the area. It could be unrelated but for the last year touching her back makes her hind legs buckle and her back twists but she doesn't act like she is in pain. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 13 years and 7 months old | 45 lbs

Stephanie Echols, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Without seeing Lucy it is hard to say for sure. Gnawing at one area could be a sign of an allergy, like a flea allergy or pain. Even if you aren't seeing live fleas it doesn't mean they aren't there. And for dogs that are allergic, they tend to lick and scratch over the tail base. If there is a painful joint or area, dogs will lick a lot. At 13 it is very likely to have arthritis pain, this would also explain the buckling in her back. I recommend taking Lucy to the vet for a thorough physical exam and blood work to start anti-inflammatories. Please do not give any medications over the counter until you talk to your vet. In the meantime, you can wash the area with a mild soap (like Dial) and water to relieve some of the inflammation. Good luck and kisses to Lucy!

Why is my senior dog gnawing her back, has scabs, and legs buckle?

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