Paralysis Weakness Dog 5-10 Years

Partial paralysis and weakness can look very similar, even to a trained eye. Partial paralysis typically results in a very unsteady gait, falling down, and/or knuckling over of the paws.

Weakness is usually more associated with a tendency for the dog to sit or lay down frequently during what is typically normal activity. The ability to go up stairs or get up from a lying position is often impaired with general weakness.

Complete paralysis results in complete inability to use the limbs at all, and in severe cases, there may be no sensation to touch.

Based on these general criteria, would your best guess be that your dog is experiencing weakness or paralysis?
Weakness
Paralysis

One thought on “Paralysis Weakness Dog 5-10 Years”

Mona Courville says:

September 20, 2015 at 2:47 pm

I have a 6 year old Papillon. He is having trouble walking, apparent weakness/instability in hind legs, minor pain. No vomiting, diarrhea, fever, appetite issues. He is having trouble going up/down steps, jumping up/down.
I am leaning toward a hip/spine issue and not a viral infection like distemper or parvo. No ticks found.
Please advise as to what this may be.

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