Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my older dog walking slowly, shaking, and struggling on stairs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 39 lbs

My dog is acting weird today. I'm not the one how is taking care of her but my parents do. So, my dog she usually takes her like 7 sec for her to get downstairs, but today her steps looked like were unsure or painful and I needed to make her to get downstairs and when she walked it was really slow, like it seemed painful to walk. When she got to her bed, the first two paws jumped in fairly easy but her back legs little harder and at some point she started shaking but she stopped. Ps she's 8 or 9

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 7th, 2018

Poor Luna! Because she is 8 or 9, my first thought is that she may be suffering from arthritis. That would cause her pain, and from your description, it sounds like she is painful. It could also be that she injured herself. Arthritis is common in older dogs. I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose if she is suffering from arthritis, and can give her some pain meds for it. Rimadyl (an NSAID) is a good drug to give to help with the symptoms of arthritis. I also recommend giving her glucosamine or chondroitin sulfate supplements. They provide the necessary nutrients for cartilage repair and function. Use of them helps relieve some of the symptoms of arthritis, and you can use it in conjunction with Rimadyl to help maximize relief from her symptoms. Give her vet a call today to make an appointment. Best of luck!

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
Why is my dog or cat shaking? When should I see a veterinarian?
Concerned your pet is shaking? Veterinarian Todd Cecil discusses common causes like hypothermia, metabolic disorders, and seizures. He recommends a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
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
My pet's eye looks strange but doesn't seem to hurt. What's wrong?
Is your pet's eye issue painless? A DVM explains potential corneal trauma or scratch. Immediate vet care is crucial to save their eye. Get expert advice now!
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
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored