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Why is my senior dog limping, sleeping more, and not walking?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Bulldog | Female | spayed | 8 years and 10 months old | 68 lbs

My 9 year old English bull terrier has developed a limp which seems to be affecting right shoulder area. Her walking has reduced over past few months and she has gone from enjoying a good walk to having 2 shorter walks. In the past week she has been reluctant to leave the house. She is happy to go out into the garden to toilet; other than that she is mainly sleeping. She continues to have a good appetite. She takes steroids for skin condition and needs optimmune treatment for dry eye.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Davis

Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on October 13th, 2017

Her reduced activity level may be due to the lameness or arthritis pain. I recommend a veterinary exam for the lameness. They will feel her neck shoulder and the rest of the leg to determine the cause. They may also do X-rays to look for bone and joint problems. If they think Ruby is painful they can prescribe pain medication. I don't like older dogs to get too lazy and not exercise since they can gain weight and lose muscle mass which makes the lameness worse. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Ruby.
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