Expert: Anna - 7/28/2000

Question
Dear Anna,
We have a sweet male that is 7 years old. He has always had a hard time sitting. His back legs shake as if he is in pain. Lately when we run together, his back leg kind of goes out from underneath him. This may happen 1-3 times on a 4-5 mile run. What do you think? Melanie

Answer
Melanie,
This sounds like it is a spine problem. It could be as simple as a pinched nerve or more serious. You should have a good vet examine him and maybe do a myleogram to determine if there is a spinal cord problem.

I would seriously consider cutting down the distance of the "runs" and turning them into walks. Borzoi are designed for sprinting very fast for relatively short distances, not running for miles. Humans can outdistance any dog as far as stamina goes. No dog but a husky or sled dog type can really do that kind of distance. A three mile trot is very adequate excercise for any borzoi over the age of one year old. Do not roadwork borzoi under one year of age. Over 7 you should slow down as the dog ages. You can tell if they are panting sooner than usual, etc.

Good luck with your boy and let me know what you find out from the vet, please?