If you’ve ever noticed your dog limping, struggling to get up, or moving with an unusual rhythm, it may be more than just a pulled muscle or a clumsy moment. These are often signs of a gait disorder – a disruption in how a dog walks, trots or runs. Gait issues can stem from a range of causes, from joint injuries to neurological conditions, and understanding what’s going on is key to getting the right help.
In this blog, we explore the difference between orthopaedic and neurological gait problems, how they present, and how therapies like chiropractic care can support recovery and wellbeing.
Orthopaedic vs. Neurological Gait Issues
Gait disorders generally fall into two broad categories:
1. Orthopaedic Causes
These are physical or mechanical issues in the musculoskeletal system – bones, joints, ligaments, muscles and tendons. Common culprits include:
- Shoulder injuries such as tendon inflammation or joint instability
- Elbow conditions like dysplasia or incongruence
- Hip disorders including hip dysplasia or muscle strain
- Knee issues such as ligament rupture or patella instability
- Carpal (wrist) and tarsal (ankle) injuries like sprains or fractures
These conditions often lead to limping, stiffness, or favouring one limb. Dogs may hesitate to bear weight or show discomfort when lying down, standing up or exercising.
2. Neurological Causes
These involve the nervous system – including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Gait changes here are more about coordination than pain, and can include:
- Ataxia, or uncoordinated movement
- Paresis, meaning weakness or partial paralysis
- Infections like meningitis
- Trauma to the spine or head
- Congenital issues such as vertebral malformations
- Degenerative conditions like disc disease or nerve root compression
A dog with neurological dysfunction may appear “wobbly,” drag their feet, or have difficulty with balance. Unlike orthopaedic problems, the movement itself is often disrupted, not just painful.
The Importance of a Thorough Assessment
Because the signs of gait disorders can overlap, identifying the root cause is essential. A full assessment may include:
- Gait observation (on different surfaces and at various speeds)
- Neurological examination (to test reflexes, coordination and proprioception)
- Orthopaedic palpation (to identify tenderness, instability or misalignment)
- Advanced imaging, if needed (like X-rays or MRI)
At the Renew Centre, our rehabilitation team uses a multi-disciplinary approach – combining physical examination with clinical history and, where needed, veterinary diagnostics – to help pinpoint what’s affecting your dog’s movement.
Where Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Come In
Whether a gait issue stems from joint injury or neurological disruption, therapy can play a vital role in:
- Reducing pain and inflammation
- Improving joint mobility and alignment
- Re-educating movement patterns
- Supporting muscle tone and coordination
- Enhancing overall quality of life
Canine chiropractic care, when delivered by a trained professional, can help restore function and relieve discomfort by addressing biomechanical restrictions – often contributing to both prevention and recovery. For dogs with chronic issues or age-related decline, it may also support comfort and ease of movement as part of a long-term management plan.
Not Just Recovery – But Prevention Too
Sometimes, the earliest signs of a gait disorder are easy to miss: a subtle head bob when walking, hesitating to jump into the car, or a shift in posture over time. Spotting and addressing these changes early can prevent long-term compensations that affect the rest of the body.
At the Renew Centre, we believe in treating the whole dog — addressing the visible symptoms while also looking beneath the surface to support healthy movement, better function and lasting comfort.
Worried About Your Dog’s Movement?
If you’ve noticed a change in how your dog walks, stands or plays, it may be worth booking an assessment. Gait disorders can be complex, but they’re also highly treatable with the right combination of therapy and support.
Your dog’s movement matters — and we’re here to help keep them on the right track.
