Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 2/15/2009

Question
I have a 8 month old male Pekingese. He seems healthy and happy however after a walk he seems to loose control of his back legs for a moment then fully recovers. He has never displayed any problems in the house or garden and it seems to happen after walks on the grass.

He did fall out of the car and was yelping in pain this may be a factor.

I am very worried can you help.

Thanks Nicola from Scotland

Answer
Nicola -

You should have your puppy examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Without a physical exam, I cannot tell you what is going on with your dog. Certain breeds of dogs tend to have problems with intervertebral disk disease and the pekingnese is one of them.  IVD can cause neurological symptoms (problems with the spine)- the sooner you have your pup checked by a doctor (physical exam, radiographs)the sooner you can help to avoid permanent damage.

Sincerely,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM