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My dog's front legs are stiff and stuck straight. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | unspayed | 30 lbs

My dogs front legs and very stiff. She can move her back legs,but her front legs are stuck straight.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on February 17th, 2017

Oh dear! This is very concerning - stiffness and rigidity like this in the front legs can be caused by certain neurologic diseases, a herniated disc or spinal injury in the neck or back, or exposure to something toxic. This is an emergency, and I would recommend taking Monroe to the vet for an exam immediately - he/she can do x-rays or other testing if needed to help determine the problem and get her started on appropriate treatment.

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