About Nicole Expertise I will offer assistance to anyone needing help with general Basset Hound care, health and behavior/training.
I do not, however, assist those who have bred their pet. If you are responsibly breeding, you shouldn't have simple questions as your mentor should be providing you all the instruction you need.
Experience I currently own a 5 year old Basset Hound and his 6 non-basset siblings...(a mutt and 5 Boxers). I have studied dog behavior and training extensively and train my own dogs.
Organizations Buckeye Boxer Rescue
Education/Credentials I was a certified obedience instructor and a certified potty-training instructor with Petsmart and studied under a canine behaviorist.
Question 6 year old male basset, BUCK, seems to limp and/or not want to put weight on his hind legs after any nap or extended time spent in one spot. Once "loosened up" or on the move, seems better. Muscle in rear "thighs" seems soft like jello. We're wondering if its his feet "going to sleep" or something more serious. He's lived a golden restful life and he's not much of an exerciser. Has always liked laying around and now has trouble getting off of his bed to come greet us. Doesn't whine about it but will just set on his butt until he tests it out enough to know he can put weight on it. Any ideas, recommended next steps?
Answer Hi Scott,
My suggestion would be to take him to his vet and have his back checked out. BH's are notorious for bad backs/spines as their ages progress, especially when exercise has not played a major role in their lives.
He's really only at about mid-age (on average) and shouldn't be having too awfully many age related issues although now is a prime time for arthritis and joint problems to be setting in.
I'd get him checked out and in the meantime, be sure not to let him jump onto or off of anything he can't otherwise step onto...beds, furniture, etc.
You may also want to start him on a glucosamine supplement...the benefits are questioned by some but there are definitely no 'cons'. :)
