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My 7-month German Shepherd has weak back legs and pain. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 31 years and 6 months old | 57 lbs

Hi please if u can help me to know my dog Zara she is 7 month german shepherd she is suffering from weakness when she is getting up from seating and sometime i feel she is in pain in her back legs i don't inow what she have her back legs are weak and sometime also she is screaming for 3 seconds if she slides Thanks in advance

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 3rd, 2017

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!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 5th, 2020
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m sorry to hear Zara is in pain. I recommend taking her to a vet for radiographs of her leg. She could have something like growing pains, where her bones grow quicker than her body or something more concerning like osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) an inflammation or lesion of the cartilage in the joint. Either way, she needs safe medications to alleviate her pain. After a diagnosis is made, the vet can direct you to the best treatment method. Good luck and kisses to Zara!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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