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.

When knuckling is present, the healthy mobility of your dog is impacted by many conditions leaving unstable foot positioning. Symptoms can deteriorate based on the underlying source for symptoms and should be vet checked to prevent complications including lameness and infection. If the movement of pets is compromised, take the appropriate clinical action to address reason for such difficulties.

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.

To determine whether the feet of your dog has knuckled, it is necessary to determine their steadiness and overall movement while on their feet. When a dog knuckles, they are unable to correct bent paws or realign the position of the foot leaving them unable to walk or crippled. Severe cases leaves most dogs disabled and unable to place any weight on their affected paws.

The presence of knuckling could result from a thorn in the foot or some type of injury causing pain when stepped on. Dogs affected by thorns or fractures will not put pressure on their feet and in many cases, the paw remains in an abnormal position. Seeking medical attention from your vet determines whether the canine has suffered from a fracture or other form of damage.

If a Fibrocartilaginous embolism has developed, the canine is immediately impacted after vigorous exercise or poor movement placing restrictions on the full and healthy operation of the spinal column. When an embolism presents, a piece of the spinal disc chips off and moves through the blood vessel causing the limitation in the spine. When canines suffer from this trauma, many are unable to use one or both hind legs.

Myelopathy develops in senior dogs who have been diagnosed with degeneration including arthritis leaving the canine unable to maintain balance or cause complete lameness in the legs. The disease is characterized by a inability to properly coordinate the limbs including dragging the paws while walking. Older pets may struggle to lift themselves or turn and over a period of a year suffer paralysis.

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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