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My dog won't put weight on his back leg. Is it a vet emergency?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 5 years and 7 months old | 15 lbs

I adopted a chihuahua/dauschand mix about 2 months ago and I recently can see him not put weight on his back left leg. I was hoping he wouldn’t get the dauschand’s back problems! Is it necessary to take him to the vet or do I just need to find him a daily supplement?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 6th, 2018

Definitely take Fonzi into the vet first thing in the morning. When a dog won't put weight on a leg, it's means the leg is very painful and a daily supplement will not fix that. In addition, you cannot give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. He needs a vet to diagnose why he is in pain so it can be treated. Please take him into a vet today. Best of luck!
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