My dog's back legs are suddenly not working. What could it be?

This sign as you described it seems to be compatible with a neurological problem, most likely affecting the spinal cord at the thoracolumbar level. Intervertebral disc extrusion, spinal cord infarct and spinal cord tumor are all possible differentials and immediate check up and neurological examination should be performed as soon as possible to be able to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Further investigations like x rays may be immediately needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Poor Turbena! I'm afraid this is very concerning. Loss of function in the rear legs is most often due to a "slipped" or herniated disc in the spine, but could also be due to some other neurologic problem or illness. This problem needs immediate treatment for the best chance of recovery, so I would recommend taking Turbena to the vet now. He/she can do a complete neurologic exam as well as x-rays or other testing if needed to help diagnose the problem and get her started on appropriate treatment right away.

Hi, you should have him checked over as he could have a herniated disc in his spine or another spinal disease that will just get worse over the course of time and could eventually lead to permanent loss of use of back legs and troubles going to the toilet. Hope you can have Joey checked over ASAP.

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!

Oh no, it's not good that Duke's legs have suddenly given out. He could have been injured, suffering from severe hip dysplasia or degenerative joint disease, or he could have even have a spinal tumor causing disruption to the nerves in his back legs. He does need to see a vet for a lameness exam, possibly a neurological exam, and x-rays first thing in the morning to diagnose the cause of this sudden behavior. Once a cause is found, the vet can discuss treatment options. Tonight, rest him as much as possible.

Oh dear! This is a very serious problem - I'm afraid she really has to see a vet right away. She may have a herniated disc in her back causing the paralysis, or some other neurologic problem affecting her spinal cord. She may be in pain, or she may have no feeling at all in her rear legs - it's impossible to say without an exam. She needs immediate treatment to have a reasonable chance of regaining function in her rear legs, I'm afraid there's nothing you can do at home that will help her. If costs are a concern, you can see if there is a low-cost SPCA clinic in your area that could help. You could also apply online for Care Credit, which is a payment plan accepted by most vet clinics: www.carecredit.com

Hello, sorry to hear about Paddy. It sounds like Paddy may have a back or neck injury either from a slipped disk or a inflammation. I would recommend restricting his activity and not allow any running, jumping, or rough housing as this can exacerbate any injury until you can see your primary care veterinarian. Monitor for any worsening signs of weakness in his back legs and if you see any of these then have him evaluated sooner. Hope this helps and best of luck.