Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog suddenly can't walk, dragging rear legs. Could it be hip dysplasia?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 9 years and 9 months old

My dog suddenly couldn't climb the stairs. within 2 weeks she was dragging her rear legs unable to use them to walk. She hasn't been out of the backyard. so she hasn't been in an accident. Can hip dysplasia be sudden onset. What else coul d be going on.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 1st, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Chlorella! There are few possibilities: severe arthritis, Lyme disease, a slipped disk in her beck, degenerative myelopathy or even a spinal tumor. Hip dysplasia is something the dog is borne with and it can get worse over time. It usually isn't sudden. I think you should get her in for an exam this week! I wish you the best!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Claudia Fioravanti

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi, it could be severe hip dysplasia or severe ostheorthritis of the spine or a prolapsed disc. It can be different things, to start you should have her checked over, then possibly X-rays should be taken and if nothing found the only way forward would be ab MRI or CT scan. Hope this makes sense !

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
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 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
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored