My dog suddenly can't use his leg and won't walk. What's wrong?

Hi, he might be experiencing an herniated disc. You would not necessarily see it on xrays. I would recommend to monitor urination and defecation and consider what’s the best way forward considering age, prognosis and welfare. Your vet should be able to advise you considering these three factors. Sending you positive thoughts.

Hi! Thanks for entrusting us with Meatball’s care today! Lameness, pain or inability to use the leg can be a sign of a few things that range from a muscle sprain to even a fracture. If things have not improved after seeing your veterinarian, I recommend that you have him reevaluated by your veterinarian so that this can be further assessed which will likely include radiographs. Treatment will be dependent on findings though at the very least pain control medications can be prescribed. Good luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

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 no, that's not good! Jessie could have suffered an injury to his spine or hips causing him to suddenly be unable to use his back legs. It's quite serious that he can't use them, and I would have him seen by a vet tonight for a physical exam and x-rays to diagnose what is causing his symptoms. Once a cause is found, the vet can treat him. Please bring Jessie into an ER vet or find a vet on call to see him now.

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

Spinal cord infarct and slipped disc (intervertebral disc extrusion) may be most likely differentials considering the description of the signs you provided. This clinical status require and immediate check up and neurological and physical examination. 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.

It sounds like your dog is uncomfortable or painful from some reason. He may have a back injury, a disc problem, or hip problem, or even abdominal pain. Your pet needs to be seen by your vet for an exam, bloodwork, and possibly x-rays to determine the cause for your pet's symptoms and get him stated on treatment.