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Why are my dog's back legs stiff, limping, and arching his back?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Peekapoo | Male | neutered | 3 years and 5 months old | 20 lbs

Hello I have a 4 year old peekapoo dog. He has epilepsy(not sure if this matters but just in case). He started to limp on one back leg a few days ago and now it seems he’s having trouble walking with his back legs. He currently seems to have an easier time using them but they’re stiff. He eats normally and uses the bathroom normally. He has slowed down on drinking. Also he is slightly arching his back.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 31st, 2019

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Rock. Poor boy. It sounds like he is in a lot of pain, and it's quite concerning that now he's having trouble walking with his back legs. He could be arching back to relieve pressure off another area of his body that is painful. Tonight, rest him. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. Take him into the vet first thing in the morning. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 16th, 2017

    Oh no, poor Rocky! It sounds like he is in pain if he's standing with his leg off the ground. It could be that he strained or torn a ligament in his knee (his cranial cruciate ligament), or he could have strained a muscle. I recommend resting Rocky for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

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