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How To Spot Dog Knuckling

By Betty Watson


Genetic factors, age and dietary deficiencies can contribute to conditions in canines that cause crippling symptoms and compromise quality of life. Dog knuckling happens when the tops of the paws bend downwards causing the animal to move in an awkward manner as they drag their feet. The disease has many bases but stems from neurological complications and requires effective treatment to provide much needed relief and mobility.

The presence of knuckling will limit the normal movement of pets including the ability to alleviate irritation of the paws and poor positioning of feet. The disorder can become worse without treatment depending on its cause leaving dogs lame and eventually paralyzed. If you notice your dog is no longer moving properly, it is important that a professional vet is consulted.

Dogs affected by the condition can be suffering from paw trauma, myelopathy, Carpal abnormalities, Fibrocartilaginous embolism, spinal disc changes, and genetic anomalies. Consultation with a veterinary practitioner includes an examination of symptoms to determine the basis for the difficulties and the appropriate treatment. Do not allow your dog to worsen before seeking vet care.

If your dog is suffering from knuckled feet, simply observe their movement and the positioning of the paws during walking or standing. The knuckling makes it difficult for pets to bring the toes inward and correct its position leaving them to try to balance on their knuckles. When the condition is left to deteriorate many dogs could become permanently lame.

Any trauma or infection of the paws will cause your dog to knuckle and should be addressed immediately. What may appear as a minor injury could be an underlying fracture requiring effective medical attention to correct the physical distress. Always inspect the paws for signs of thorns, stings and areas of damage that would have a severe impact on healthy movement.

If a Fibrocartilaginous embolism is the cause for symptoms, dogs will how signs of lameness in a single or both legs. The embolism is a serious condition and leaves pets lame in the hind legs, unable to move properly or not move at all as the disc is injured and a chip travels to the spine. Canines impacted by such trauma should receive immediate veterinary attention.

The occurrence of Myelopathy is predominant in senior dogs who may have arthritis or similar forms of spinal and joint degeneration. It will leave the affected animal lame in the hind legs and the feet will drag while walking. Many aged pets over 8 years will show signs at an early stage of degenerative symptoms including unstable movement and difficulty when rising that could lead to paralysis over a year.

Pets provided regular vet checks and monitoring can be protected against the advancement of knuckling including its possible progression into lameness. Large breeds are predominantly affected by all older canines can receive supplements and guarded support to avoid unnecessary complications. If you suspect your dog is knuckling, best seek professional veterinary advice.




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