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My newborn puppy is crawling on its back legs. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Female | 1 day old

My dog had a litter of pups yesterday... all seem to be doing great, but the white females back legs looks really weird and it's like she crawls on them instead of using her feet. It's my first time ever dealing with newborn pups. Wasn't sure if there is anything I can do to encourage her to use her back feet,, or if she'll be handicap. She is the only puppy with weird looking back legs.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 19th, 2018

Hello. This pup has a deformity that involves the joints of the rear legs. You should have your veterinarian assess the puppy immediately and see if there is a way to tape or wrap them to help. This will probably not correct in its own without some type of support wrap and physical therapy and even then it may not get better. Please have your vet examine the puppy ASAP. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach

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