My dog struggles to walk, sits sideways. Best harness & supplements?

Question

I'm terribly afraid that Kazuya has hip dysplasia. In the last week, he has gotten progressively worse. He will only take 2 steps and sit sideways. Does anyone recommend a rear harness with handle for support? Also, which supplements are the most effective? I'm currently giving him Cosequin and another one called Infinite Pet Supplement. I am also monitoring his weight. Please help. I cannot have kids and my boys are my life. His brother is healthy. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | 10 years and 1 month old | 80 lbs

Rodrigo Roca, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello, sorry to heat about Kazuya. Although hip dysplasia can indeed cause lameness and difficulty walking, it sounds based on what you are describing that it may be his knee that is bothering him. One of the tests used to check for knee disease is called a sit test, where we look for dogs sitting with their affected leg fully stretched out. Him sitting side ways could be a form of his stretching out his knee. Kazuya may have a combination of both hip and knee disease, since most dogs with hip dysplasia have this most of their life and its not until the arthritis or a concurrent disease affects them that they start to become lame. You should have him evaluated by your veterinarian to determine if its his knee or hips bothering him. Regardless, both are managed with weight control, anti-inflammatory medications, pain medications, and sometimes surgery. In the interim, keep him rested for 10-14 days to allow the inflammation to subside and continue to control her weight. Hope this helps and best of luck.

My dog struggles to walk, sits sideways. Best harness & supplements?

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