Seeing your old dog’s back legs collapsing and refusing food is heartbreaking. These symptoms often signal pain, weakness, or a serious underlying condition that needs attention.
We outline the common causes of old dog back legs collapsing not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Old Dog Back Legs Collapsing Not Eating — Why It Happens
Back leg collapse combined with loss of appetite in senior dogs is often linked to mobility disorders, nerve damage, or pain. It may also be caused by metabolic or neurological disease. Appetite loss frequently follows when dogs are too weak, confused, or uncomfortable to eat. In senior dogs, these signs are particularly concerning and often connected.
Common Causes of Old Dog Back Legs Collapsing Not Eating
Degenerative Myelopathy
This progressive spinal cord disease affects older dogs, especially large breeds like German Shepherds.
It starts with hind limb weakness, dragging toes, and eventually leads to collapse. Appetite loss may come from stress, depression, or secondary pain.
Though there is no cure, physical therapy and supportive care can help.
Arthritis or Hip Dysplasia
Severe joint degeneration can make movement painful. Dogs may collapse or avoid standing altogether.
Pain can also lead to appetite loss. You might notice stiffness, limping, or vocalizations when your dog tries to get up.
Anti-inflammatories, joint supplements, and lifestyle adjustments can offer relief.
Neurological Disorders
Conditions affecting the spinal cord or nerves—like spinal tumors, slipped discs, or nerve degeneration—can cause back leg collapse.
Dogs may seem uncoordinated or drag their paws. In some cases, they lose interest in food due to discomfort or confusion.
Prompt evaluation is crucial for both diagnosis and pain management.
Vestibular Disease
A sudden onset of imbalance, often confused with a stroke, can cause collapsing and refusal to eat.
Dogs may tilt their head, circle, or fall over. Nausea and dizziness make eating nearly impossible.
Most dogs recover with supportive care, but a vet visit is essential to rule out serious causes.
Spinal Trauma
Falls, slips, or other injuries can damage the spine or hips, leading to sudden leg collapse and refusal to eat.
Signs include yelping, reluctance to move, or dragging limbs. Appetite loss is common due to pain.
Trauma should always be treated as an emergency in older dogs.
Cancer
Tumors in the spine, hips, or nerves can weaken the back legs and cause pain-related appetite loss.
Other signs may include weight loss, lethargy, or swelling in affected areas.
Early diagnosis helps improve comfort and explore treatment options.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Old, Back Legs Collapsing and Not Eating
Keep your dog on a non-slip surface and restrict movement to prevent further injury. Support them with a harness or towel sling if they need to go outside.
Offer soft, easy-to-eat foods and hand-feed if necessary. Some dogs eat better when lying down, so try elevating their bowl.
Apply warm compresses to sore joints, and provide a soft bed in a quiet location.
Stay close to monitor for signs of pain, distress, or worsening symptoms. Avoid lifting them roughly or allowing them to climb stairs.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary help right away if your old dog:
Suddenly collapses or cannot stand on their back legs
Refuses food for over 24 hours
Shows signs of severe pain or crying out
Appears confused, lethargic, or disoriented
Has a history of joint, spinal, or nerve issues
Back leg collapse in senior dogs can quickly become a quality-of-life issue. Combining this with appetite loss suggests a deeper medical problem that needs urgent attention.
Your vet may recommend imaging, blood tests, or mobility assessments to diagnose the issue.
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Key Takeaway
If your old dog’s back legs are collapsing and they’re not eating, it’s time to act. These symptoms point to pain, weakness, or neurological issues that can severely impact their well-being.
Create a safe, supportive environment and contact your veterinarian quickly. The sooner you understand what’s causing these symptoms, the better chance your dog has for comfort and stability.