Why did my German Shepherd's legs suddenly stop working and spasm?

She could have arthritis in her rear legs, degenerative myelopathy, neck or back problem, etc. She should to be examined by a veterinarian to determine the exact cause. Your vet can do a full orthopedic exam and take x-rays, if needed, to help diagnose and then determine the best way to treat. She may need an anti-inflammatory and or pain medications to help. Hope she feels better soon.

I am very sorry to hear about Zac. These symptoms are very concerning. There are some developmental diseases we can see in large breed puppies that can cause pain the limbs, such as panosteitis http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=3238 but they are not usually seen as early as 9 weeks of age. I would be concerned the puppy could have some sort of infectious or immune mediated arthropathy (joint disease) or he could be having bizarre episodes due to something like a liver shunt causing strange behavioral episodes. I would highly recommend an examination by a vet ASAP. I would also video record one of these episodes if they occur again before your appointment in order to show the vet. The vet can do a thorough physical examination and may recommend bloodwork or x-rays depending on their findings.

In an older GSD losing ability to control hindlims, I would be concerned about degenerative diseases of the spinal cord (degenerative myelopathy-DM), spinal cord tumors, or less likely a fungal infection such as aspergillosis. Bluebelle needs to be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Following examination, discuss testing for DM and imaging of her spinal cord (MRI)x

Unfortunately I have no suggestions for things you can try at home for this. It sounds like Riven is in a lot of pain, and I have to advise that you have her seen immediately, in order to uncover the exact cause and get an appropriate treatment. Perhaps a friend or family member will loan you some money, or you can try contacting a VCA clinic in your area, as they often waive the exam fee for new clients.

No, this is not distemper or a "nervous break down". It is either weakness from an underlying orthopedic issue or mild seizure activity. Since she is back to normal I suggest you just monitor her for now. If it happens again then you should video tape the episode to show your vet what she is doing as she should be examined by your vet.

Hello. I am sorry that Zara is hurting. Sometimes German Shepherds can have something called "Hip Dysplasia" and can have severe arthritis and abnormal hips and this can cause pain and trouble walking. I recommend you have her checked by your vet, who will likely perform x-rays to check her hips. Your vet can also help you get set up with joint supplements as well as pain management for Zara. Good luck with her!

If the "fits" you are seeing are actually seizures, then yes, this could be a neurological issue like epilepsy. However seizures can be caused by numerous things. The best course of action is to take your vet to the vet for a physical examination and blood work to rule out any underlying metabolic issues. Depending on the findings and severity of the seizures your vet may recommend starting medications or may refer you to a neurologist. Best of luck.