Why does my older dog's leg get stiff after rest, then she runs fine?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed
Hello. My 9 year old Shepherd cross has developed a stiffness in a back leg after lying down for a while. When she gets up she limps for a short period and then is fine. No sign of a limp or any distress. She runs as fast as she always has until the next time. I have been told that she might have a cruciate ligament tear or separation but if that were the case surely it would show up in her normal walking and running. Your advice in this matter would be appreciated. Thank you, Mike.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on January 27th, 2018
One of the most common reasons we will see a dog limp after they get up from resting is arthrits in a joint. Since Maggie is 9 years old, that is certainly a possibility. A complete cruciate tear will result in an unstable joint and will have lameness that occurs at a walk or run, but a partial cruciate tear is not unstable and can result in a lameness that is worse after resting. I would recommend having your veterinarian examine Maggie to see what they find on exam, then see what their recommendation is for treatment. A joint supplement may be enough for Maggie or she may need a prescription medication. It really depends on her examination. I am including more information about treatment for arthritis below. https://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=587 Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using PetCoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on June 14th, 2019
I recommend to call your veterinarian and ask if they checked for the source of lameness. Sometimes on a physical exam, the doctor will palpate an abnormal joint and this is likely the source of the lameness. The true way to diagnose arthritis is with a radiograph and I recommend to have that done so that you at least know what you are dealing with it so you can better address it. Pets can also injury ligaments which can look similar to arthritis but are managed differently. That is wonderful that you have her on a joint supplement. Here are a few other things you can do if it is arthritis: https://www.petcoach.co/article/7-ways-to-manage-your-dogs-arthritis/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/arthritis-in-dogs-101-what-you-should-know/ Daily, low impact activities are essential to maintain muscle tone and stability. Royal Canin makes a diet called Mobility support which I think works better than any supplement and you may consider feeding Nikita this diet. I hope this helps to give you some ideas.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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