My dog has arched back, stumbling, can't walk. Should I see a vet?

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.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Harley! Look closely at Harley's eyes...are they moving quickly side to side or rolling? If they are then he could be having a vestibular event. The most common cause is a middle ear infection (under the ear drum) that causes inflammation of the peripheral nerve that control balance. Other causes could be more serious: stroke, seizure, brain tumor, metabolic issues or bleeding that is causing weakness. Harley should see your Vet ASAP this morning for an exam. I hope this helps and I wish Harley the very best!

I hate to hear this is happening to Harley. Back pain can be severe and debilitating. The fact that he suddenly can't use the back legs is extremely worrisome and could indicate an emergency situation! Back pain and paralysis can signify a compressed disc or a disc that is pushing on the spinal cord. This is very worrisome because these pets can experience a sudden paralysis that requires surgery. These pets can end up suddenly paralyzed and this can even happen if they have surgery. I recommend to have Harley examined by the veterinarian today. These pets are often given anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs or steroids), muscle relaxants, pain control and STRICT rest so no walks, running, jumping, stairs. Crate rest is best. This could last for up to 8 weeks. Sometimes acupuncture or other therapy is also required. Play it safe and have him examined today. I hope this helps.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am concerned that this is likely due to a neurological abnormality such as a herniated disc which can be a surgical emergency. However, other things are possible. This does warrant a veterinary evaluation as soon as possible for further assessment and treatment. They can then recommend therapy accordingly. Best of luck!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This may be due to a neurological or orthopedic condition. This could even due to weakness from perhaps getting into something he should not have. For this reason, I recommend that you consider taking him to your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check what seems to be the issue so that it can be treated accordingly. Good luck and have a great day!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This may be due to a neurologic condition such as a herniated disc. I recommend that you have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for this and treat him accordingly. Best of luck!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like Hooch is having neurologic issues. This is quite concerning. I would go ahead and have him evaluated at this time to see more in detail what he may have and see what the treatment would be like. I am hoping for the best!