Expert: Christine Puetz - 9/3/2009

Question
i have a 4 month old english bulldog that is having trouble walking.. he can walk but he walks like he struggling with movement and falls down...  i just got back from another opinion from the vet and had x-rays taken.. i now have an appointment next week to go out of state to a specialist...the first vet told me to keep him calm, this vet told me its ok to let him play with the other dogs...  dont know now what to do... and has anyone else had this problem...  ?

Answer
Gail,

Bulldogs are prone to hip problems.  You are probably looking at hip dysplacia, but you should find out for sure at the specialist.

I think it is OK to let him play as long as he is not in pain.  A lot of times the leg muscles will compensate for the skeletal problems, so exercise will be a benefit.

Hope this helps,

Christine Puetz