Why is my senior Samoyed's leg weak and tail twitching? Arthritis?

Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be due to pain or discomfort. Given his age, arthritis is certainly a possible concern. Have Scooter evaluated by your veterinarian to further assess this possibility. If he does have arthritis, there are supplements and medications that can help with this tremendously. Good luck and have a nice day!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could in theory be due to pain of some sort. It could be from pain affecting the leg more specifically. If this continues, an examination by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment is recommended. Good luck and have a great day!

Based on Riley's age and the clinical signs, it sounds like he may be experiencing at least one but possibly two issues. An 11 year old almost always had some level of arthritis. Some dogs just have more than others. It is not uncommon for older dogs to start requiring joint supplements or non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs to help them have increased mobility as they get older. In order to confirm this, he should be seen by a vet who can palpate the hind legs. They can make sure they don't feel anything out of the ordinary, and can also shoot x rays if they things it is warranted. In terms of the wheezing you are seeing occasionally, it is possible that this is also just another old age change. As dog's get older, their lung's structure and vasculature also tend to change sometimes making breathing a little more challenging. The wheezing could also be a sign of some sort of cardiorespiratory condition. If he is having serious trouble getting around or getting up during these episodes, a chest x ray with your veterinarian would probably be very helpful in ruling in or out several different possibilities. Both the arthritis and cardiorespiratory disease are generally symptomatically treatable.

Poor Boi! Arthritis can feel worse in cold weather, which is likely why he won't leave the dog house. If possible, I'd bring him inside. He'd be warmer and more comfortable in the house. I'd take him into the vet to check out that sore on his butt, the fact he's getting weaker, and he can't put on weight. Those last two things make me think he is sick, and that should be checked out by a vet promptly. Best of luck.

Your dog could have arthritis which makes him unstable. He could also suffer from hip dysplasia (which can lead to arthritis) or have some compression of the spinal cord which can affect the hind leg movement. A vet exam is recommended to check for these issues. Some may improve with anti-inflammatory medication available from your vet. In the meantime, using small throw rugs on the floor (that have grip on the back so they don't move) may help your pup get around on the floor.

I would recommend having your vet evaluate Shaffy to see what is causing the weakness. It could be due to arthritis or other orthopedic disease, neurologic disease, muscle weakness, or it could be related to the prescribed medication.

It sounds like Damian may have cauda equina syndrome. It could be arthritis in the hips but I think cauda equina is more likely. This is an extremely common problem in German Shepherds. Here is a link to an article about this problem: https://bluepearlvet.com/medical-articles/cauda-equina-syndrome/ I suggest you bring this up to your vet or get a second opinion from another vet. Hope this helps. Best wishes.