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Why is my 6-year-old dog dragging his back leg but not in pain?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Anatolian Shepherd | Male | neutered | 145 lbs

My 6 year old Anatolian Shepard all the sudden can't more Jos left back leg...he's dragging it. No other symptoms and he is not in any pain just wcan't walk on it. What could be the issue. Live in NM so not a lot of ticks wheere we are, don't think it was a snake because our other dogs were outside with him too. Has no history of hip or any other joint issues. ???

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Veterinarian

Published on July 6th, 2018

The symptom you report could have a few origins; the nervous system, bone, muscle, blood vessels, or the soft tissues. If he is limping (toe touching or hopping) this could be a knee related issue (cruciate injury) which is a common problem. If he is dragging the limb and not placing his foot over correctly (dragging the top of his foot and not flipping it to put the pads down) this may be a neurologic issue. There are a few disease processes that can cause neurologic impairment so a neurologic exam by your vet would help to localize if this is the issue. If there is no trauma a vascular event (clot) is also possible as well. Is the foot warm? It is good that Lakota does not seem painful although sometimes not using the leg is their symptom of pain, any swelling anywhere on the leg? I think what is best is an exam with a veterinarian to localize which organ system is causing the issue, orthopedic (bone, soft tissues) vs neurologic, and help ease your mind about what is causing this. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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