Sudden Limb Lameness in Senior Dog: Causes and Solution

1. Foot Injuries.

Upon discovering that your dog is limping, it's crucial for the owner to immediately inspect the dog's paws. Look for any signs of injury, particularly around the pads, to see if they've stepped on sharp objects like glass, splinters, or blades. This kind of pain can cause the dog to be hesitant to touch the ground, resulting in a limp walk and a tendency to keep their legs tucked up. If there are any injuries, the owner must act quickly to clean the wound, remove any debris, and bandage it with petspecific wound care. During the healing process, it's important to keep the dog indoors to prevent the wound from opening up due to vigorous activity, which could slow down the healing process.

2. Chronic Calcium Deficiency.

Older dogs often experience a loss of quality protein, leading to calcium deficiency and subsequent bone growth issues that can cause limping. In such cases, the owner should focus on enhancing calcium and zinc supplementation. Feeding your dog shrimp shells, egg yolks, and tofu can be beneficial, as well as adding a supplement like "Wang Li Gai" to their dog food to ensure a comprehensive protein intake and restore their mobility.

3. Joint Problems.

If there are no visible injuries and the owner has been attentive to providing the dog with adequate protein, the limp could be due to joint issues. Large breeds, especially as they age, are prone to joint problems due to their physical constitution and genetic factors. If the dog is frequently allowed to sleep on cold floors or overexercised, it can develop arthritis. In such cases, a temporary regimen of a joint support supplement like "Jie Li Qu" can be helpful, along with increased warmth and care. However, if the dog's joints swell and the pain intensifies, it's essential to seek veterinary attention promptly.