Dr. Frank

Dr.Tail Vet

Limping in the back legs of a young Anatolian Shepherd Dog can be caused by a variety of issues, including developmental problems like hip dysplasia, which is not uncommon in larger breeds. Other potential causes could be an injury, such as a sprain or fracture, or a condition like patellar luxation, where the kneecap moves out of its normal position. Since your dog is on Fluoxetine, which is often prescribed for behavior issues, it's important to consider that some medications can have side effects, although lameness is not a common one for this medication.

Given your dog's recent lifestyle changes, such as travel and moving, stress could also contribute to a change in gait or exacerbate underlying conditions. However, stress alone is unlikely to be the sole cause of limping. Since the limping has been occurring weekly, it's important to determine if there's a pattern or specific trigger related to the behavior issues you've mentioned.

For immediate care, restrict your dog's activity to prevent further injury. Provide a comfortable resting area and avoid stairs or slippery floors. If the limping is due to a minor sprain or strain, this may help. You can also apply a cold compress to the affected area for 15 minutes a few times a day to reduce any swelling and discomfort. Ensure that your dog continues to take any prescribed medications as directed, and monitor for any changes in behavior or worsening of symptoms.

Keep an eye out for signs that would warrant an immediate visit to the veterinary hospital. These include severe lameness where the dog cannot bear weight on the leg at all, signs of severe pain like crying out when touched, sudden swelling or deformity of the leg, or if the limping is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever, lethargy, or refusal to eat.

It's also important to maintain a consistent routine to help manage the behavior issues, as anxiety can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms. Ensure your dog has a safe, quiet space to retreat to if feeling overwhelmed, and continue with any behavior modification plans recommended by your veterinarian or a behaviorist.

If the limping persists or worsens, or if you notice any of the additional concerning symptoms, it's important to have your dog examined by a veterinarian. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as X-rays to get a clearer picture of what's causing the limping. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may range from rest and anti-inflammatory medications to surgery for more serious conditions.

If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to come back to us! Thank you.