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Why is my 1-year-old dog suddenly unable to stand or walk?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 30 lbs

My dog (Staffordshire bull terrier) is one years old and has today started to struggle with his back legs. He is struggling to stand from laying down. Cannot stand on his hind legs and is very unstable walking.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 22nd, 2017

At his age I would worry there is a injury affected his back or hips that is causing him to be weak and unsteady. If he is overactive and jumps frequently, he may have damaged part of his spine to cause swelling and compression on the nerves. The best thing to do in confine him so he does not continue to injury himself until you can get him to the vet for an evaluation and radiographs

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on January 3rd, 2017
I would take your boy into the vet this morning. He could be suffering from severe arthritis, or he could have severe degenerative changes in his hips, joints, or spine. He sounds very painful, and it's quite serious that he is struggling to stand. He likely needs pain medications, and the vet can prescribe him some to take. Else do not ti him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. The vet can do a physical exam, lameness exam, and x-rays to diagnose what is causing his difficulty standing, and can treat accordingly.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on November 15th, 2018
Please get a front chest harness for him and use a towel under his belly. You can then assist both the front and rear end to get him into a standing position. Place all four legs underneath him in a normal position. Hopefully with your support he can stand. I would do this many times a day, letting him stand for a few minutes each time. If his pain is controlled then he should regain some strength and be able to walk with you helping. He needs to be on his feet and using his legs to get stronger. I’m glad he’s trying and that you are getting treatment for him. Good luck with Toby.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 27th, 2019
This sounds very serious - you should see a veterinarian immediately if your dog is unable to stand and seems paralyzed. This can be a sign of a neurologic problem - causes can range from a brain tumor to tick borne diseases to certain toxins. The vet can start by performing a general physical and neurologic exam to determine what's going on. Blood work may be recommended as well.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Why is my old dog suddenly weak in his hips and struggling to walk?

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My dog's back legs are weak and he can't stand. What's wrong?

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My dog's hind leg is sore, and he won't stand. What could be wrong?

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My dog's back legs are weak when standing, uncomfortable, no limp. Why?

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