Dog crossing back legs when walking- Causes and Solutions 2023

When observing our furry companions, it’s not uncommon to notice peculiar behaviors that leave us both fascinated and concerned. One such intriguing phenomenon is the occurrence of a dog crossing back legs when walking. This peculiar gait can raise questions among pet owners, as it deviates from the typical, straightforward way dogs move.

Dogs crossing their back legs while walking can indicate a potential neurological issue in their hind end. This phenomenon may stem from various conditions, including degenerative myelopathy (DM), a progressive spinal cord disease prevalent in older dogs.

Wobblers syndrome, characterized by spinal cord compression in the neck, attributed to genetic, injury, or infection factors; hip dysplasia, a condition causing abnormal hip joint development and resulting in hind leg weakness, pain, and arthritis; cruciate ligament injury, which induces knee joint pain

Furthermore, inflammation, and instability leading to hind leg weakness and crossing; and lastly, other neurological conditions like strokes or tumors can also manifest as hind leg weakness and crossing in dogs.

Why is my dog crossing their back legs while walking?

Certain dog breeds may be more prone to exhibiting behaviors that involve crossing their back legs while walking. This tendency can be due to a combination of breed characteristics, body structure, and gait patterns.

Here are some examples of breeds that are known for having unique or distinctive gaits that might involve leg crossing:

1. Sighthounds: Many sighthound breeds, such as Greyhounds, Whippets, and Borzois, have a characteristic “double suspension gallop” when they run. During this gait, their back legs may appear to cross each other. This is considered normal for these breeds.
2. Basset Hounds: Basset Hounds have a low-slung body and short legs, which can result in a somewhat swaying or waddling gait. This breed may occasionally exhibit leg crossing during walking due to their body structure.
3. Dachshunds: Dachshunds have elongated bodies and short legs, and their unique physique can lead to a slightly swaying gait, which might involve back leg crossing.
4. Pekingese: Pekingese dogs have a distinctive rolling gait, and their unique leg structure may lead to leg crossing or a somewhat wobbly appearance when they walk.
5. Chow Chows: Some Chow Chows have a distinctive stilted or stiff-legged gait, which can result in leg crossing during movement.

It’s important to note that while these breeds may have characteristic gaits that involve leg crossing, it’s typically considered normal for them.

What could be the possible reasons for my dog’s back legs crossing during walking?

A dog crossing their back legs during walking can be due to various reasons, and the exact cause may vary depending on your dog’s age, breed, and overall health. Here are some possible reasons for this behavior:

1. Normal Gait Variation: Some dogs naturally have a gait where their back legs appear to cross during walking. This might be more common in certain breeds or individual dogs and is often just a normal variation in their movement.
2. Muscle Fatigue: If your dog has been very active or has recently engaged in strenuous exercise, their muscles may become fatigued. Fatigued muscles can affect their gait and make it appear as if they are crossing their back legs.
3. Orthopedic Issues: Orthopedic problems like hip dysplasia, arthritis, or knee issues (e.g., luxating patella) can lead to discomfort and alterations in a dog’s gait. In an attempt to alleviate pain, a dog may adjust their leg positioning, which can result in crossed back legs while walking.
4. Neurological Problems: Neurological issues, such as nerve damage or disorders affecting coordination, can lead to unusual leg movements, including crossed back legs. These conditions may require veterinary evaluation and treatment.
5. Injury or Trauma: If your dog has recently sustained an injury or experienced trauma, they may adjust their gait to minimize pain. This adjustment can manifest as crossing their back legs while walking.
6. Age-Related Changes: As dogs age, they can experience joint stiffness and arthritis, which can affect their gait and cause leg crossing. This is especially common in senior dogs.
7. Psychological Factors: Some dogs may exhibit unusual behaviors due to stress, anxiety, or compulsive tendencies. Leg crossing could be a response to these emotional factors.
8. Genetic Factors: In some cases, genetic factors or congenital abnormalities may contribute to a dog’s unique gait, including crossing their back legs.

To determine the cause of your dog’s crossed back legs, it’s essential to observe their behavior closely, consider any recent changes in their activity or health, and consult with a veterinarian.

Is crossing back legs a normal behavior for dogs while walking?

Crossing the back legs can be a normal behavior for some dogs while walking, especially if it’s part of their natural gait or posture. However, it’s not typical for all dogs, and the degree to which a dog crosses their back legs can vary.

Some dogs have unique walking styles or habits that might involve crossing their back legs slightly during certain movements. This can be more common in specific breeds or individual dogs and is usually not a cause for concern if it’s a consistent and comfortable gait for them.

However, if your dog suddenly starts crossing their back legs when they didn’t do so before, or if it’s accompanied by other signs of discomfort, limping, or pain, it could indicate an underlying issue, such as orthopedic problems, neurological concerns, or injury. In such cases, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential health problems and ensure your dog’s well-being.

Could crossing back legs be a sign of a medical condition in dogs?

Crossing back legs in dogs can be a sign of a medical condition or discomfort. While some dogs may naturally have a gait that involves some degree of leg crossing, if you notice that your dog has started crossing their back legs when they didn’t do so before, or if the crossing is pronounced and appears uncomfortable, it could indicate an underlying medical issue.

Potential medical conditions that might cause a dog to cross their back legs include:

1. Orthopedic Problems: Conditions such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, luxating patella (dislocated kneecap), or other joint issues can lead to discomfort and changes in a dog’s gait, potentially causing them to cross their back legs to alleviate pain.
2. Neurological Issues: Neurological problems or nerve damage can affect a dog’s coordination and may lead to unusual leg movements, including leg crossing.
3. Injury or Trauma: Recent injuries, sprains, or muscle strains can result in changes in a dog’s gait, including crossing their back legs as they try to protect an injured area.
4. Age-Related Changes: Senior dogs may develop joint stiffness, muscle weakness, and arthritis, which can affect their gait and cause leg crossing.
5. Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, or compulsive behaviors can sometimes manifest as unusual movements, including leg crossing.

It’s important to observe your dog’s overall behavior and any other signs of discomfort or pain, such as limping, favoring one leg, or reluctance to engage in physical activity. If your dog’s leg crossing is a new or concerning behavior, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with a veterinarian.

A veterinarian can conduct a thorough physical examination, perform diagnostic tests if necessary (such as X-rays or blood work), and determine the underlying cause of the behavior. Once the cause is identified, appropriate treatment or management can be recommended to address the issue and improve your dog’s comfort and mobility.

How can I determine if my dog’s back leg crossing is a cause for concern?

Determining whether your dog’s back leg crossing is a cause for concern depends on several factors, including the degree of crossing, any accompanying symptoms, and changes in behavior. Here are some steps to help you assess whether your dog’s behavior warrants concern:

1. Observe the Degree and Consistency: Pay attention to how frequently and to what extent your dog’s back legs cross during walking. Some dogs naturally have a gait that involves slight leg crossing, which may not be a cause for concern if it’s consistent for them. However, if the crossing is sudden, severe, or appears to cause discomfort, it’s worth noting.
2. Look for Other Signs of Discomfort: Watch for any signs of pain or discomfort in your dog. This can include limping, favoring one leg, stiffness, reluctance to exercise or climb stairs, vocalization when moving, or changes in posture.
3. Consider Your Dog’s Age and Breed: Some dog breeds have unique gait patterns, and certain gait variations may be more common in specific breeds. Additionally, age-related changes can affect a dog’s mobility. Take into account your dog’s age and breed when assessing their leg crossing behavior.
4. Monitor Changes in Behavior: If your dog’s leg crossing is accompanied by other changes in behavior, such as increased lethargy, changes in appetite, or signs of anxiety, it may indicate an underlying issue.
5. Consult with a Veterinarian: If you are uncertain or concerned about your dog’s back leg crossing behavior, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian. They can perform a thorough physical examination and, if necessary, recommend diagnostic tests such as X-rays, blood work, or joint evaluations to determine the cause of the behavior.
6. Keep Track of Changes: Keep a record of when you first noticed the leg crossing behavior and any changes or developments over time. This information can be valuable for your veterinarian when diagnosing the issue.
7. Follow Veterinary Recommendations: If your veterinarian identifies an underlying medical condition or discomfort, follow their recommendations for treatment, management, or further evaluation. Early detection and intervention can often lead to better outcomes for your dog’s health and well-being.

Remember that every dog is unique, and what might be a cause for concern in one dog may not be in another. Trust your instincts as a pet owner and seek professional guidance from a veterinarian to ensure your dog’s health and comfort.

Are certain dog breeds more prone to crossing their back legs while walking?

Certain dog breeds are more prone to exhibiting unique walking styles or gait patterns, including crossing their back legs to varying degrees. These breed-specific gait characteristics are often due to their genetic makeup, body structure, and breeding history. While not all dogs of these breeds will exhibit these traits, it is more common among them.

Some examples of breeds that may be more prone to crossing their back legs or displaying distinctive gaits include:

1. Greyhounds: Greyhounds are known for their distinctive “double suspension gallop.” During this gait, they often appear to have their back legs cross over each other as they move at high speeds.
2. Whippets: Whippets, like Greyhounds, exhibit a similar galloping gait that can make it appear as if their back legs cross during a stride.
3. Borzoi: Borzois, also known as Russian Wolfhounds, have a graceful and fluid gait that may involve some degree of leg crossing during movement.
4. Salukis: Salukis, an ancient breed of sighthound, have a unique and elegant gait that may include a slight leg crossover.
5. Afghan Hounds: Afghan Hounds have a distinctive gait characterized by a long, flowing stride that can sometimes involve leg crossing.
6. Irish Wolfhounds: These large dogs may have a unique gait due to their size, which can sometimes result in leg crossing or a somewhat clumsy appearance.

It’s important to note that while these breeds may exhibit distinctive gaits, not every individual dog within these breeds will display these characteristics to the same extent. Additionally, other factors such as a dog’s overall health, physical condition, and any underlying medical issues can influence their gait.

What are some possible behavioral explanations for a dog crossing their back legs when walking?

There are a few possible behavioral explanations for a dog crossing their back legs when walking:

• Pain or discomfort. If your dog is experiencing pain or discomfort in their back legs, they may cross them in an attempt to relieve the pain. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or a recent injury.
• Weakness or instability. If your dog’s back legs are weak or unstable, they may cross them to improve their balance and coordination. This can be caused by a number of neurological conditions, such as degenerative myelopathy (DM) or wobblers syndrome.
• Fear or anxiety. In some cases, a dog may cross their back legs when they are feeling fearful or anxious. This is often seen in dogs that are new to a situation or environment.
• Play behavior. Puppies and young dogs may cross their back legs when they are playing. This is often a sign of excitement or anticipation.

If you notice your dog crossing their back legs when walking, it is important to take them to the veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Once any medical problems have been ruled out, you can work with a certified dog behaviorist to determine the behavioral cause of the problem and develop a plan to address it.

Here are some additional things to consider:

• Frequency and severity. How often does your dog cross their back legs? Is it just a few times a day, or is it constant? Is it only when they are walking, or do they do it in other situations as well?
• Other symptoms. Are there any other symptoms that your dog is experiencing, such as difficulty getting up, weakness in their hind legs, or loss of balance?
• Environmental factors. Is there anything in your dog’s environment that may be causing them stress or anxiety? For example, if they are new to the area, there may be a lot of new sights, sounds, and smells that are overwhelming them.

Can hip or joint issues contribute to a dog crossing their back legs during movement?

Hip or joint issues can contribute to a dog crossing their back legs during movement. This is because when a dog’s hips or joints are painful or unstable, they may cross their legs in an attempt to relieve the pain or improve their balance.

Some of the most common hip and joint issues that can cause dogs to cross their back legs include:

• Arthritis: Arthritis is a common condition in older dogs that causes inflammation and degeneration of the joints. This can lead to pain and stiffness, which can make it difficult for dogs to walk normally.
• Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition that affects the hip joints. It can cause the hip joints to be malformed, which can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis.
• Luxating patella: Luxating patella is a condition in which the kneecap (patella) dislocates from its normal groove in the femur. This can cause pain, lameness, and instability in the hind legs.
• Other injuries: Any injury to the hips or joints can cause a dog to cross their back legs. This can include things like torn ligaments, fractures, and dislocations.

If you notice your dog crossing their back legs, it is important to take them to the veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Once any medical problems have been ruled out, you can work with your veterinarian to develop a plan to manage your dog’s pain and improve their mobility.

There are a number of things you can do to help your dog with hip or joint issues, such as:

• Weight management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for their hips and joints. Excess weight puts extra stress on the joints, which can accelerate the progression of arthritis and other joint problems.
• Exercise: Regular exercise is important for dogs with hip or joint issues, but it is important to choose low-impact activities that are easy on the joints. Swimming and walking are both good options.
• Pain medication: If your dog is experiencing pain, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to help manage it.
• Supplements: There are a number of supplements that can help to support joint health and reduce inflammation. These include things like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Should I seek veterinary advice if my dog consistently crosses their back legs while walking?

You should seek veterinary advice if your dog consistently crosses their back legs while walking. This could be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as hip or joint issues, arthritis, or a neurological disorder.

Your veterinarian will be able to perform a physical examination and run any necessary tests to determine the cause of your dog’s behavior. Once they have a diagnosis, they can recommend the best course of treatment.

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may involve medication, physical therapy, or surgery. In some cases, lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and exercise, may be all that is needed to manage your dog’s condition.

It is important to note that early diagnosis and treatment can help to slow the progression of many underlying medical conditions and improve your dog’s quality of life.

Here are some additional things to consider when deciding whether or not to seek veterinary advice:

• Frequency and severity. How often does your dog cross their back legs? Is it just a few times a day, or is it constant? Is it only when they are walking, or do they do it in other situations as well?
• Other symptoms. Are there any other symptoms that your dog is experiencing, such as difficulty getting up, weakness in their hind legs, or loss of balance?
• Age. Older dogs are more likely to develop hip or joint issues and arthritis.
• Breed. Some breeds of dogs are more prone to certain hip or joint problems. For example, German Shepherds are more prone to hip dysplasia.

Are there any specific exercises or interventions to help prevent my dog from crossing their back legs when walking?

There are a number of exercises and interventions that can help to prevent your dog from crossing their back legs when walking.

Exercises

Some exercises that can help to strengthen your dog’s hind legs and improve their balance include:

• Walking: Walking is a great low-impact exercise for dogs of all ages. Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance and duration as your dog’s tolerance improves.
• Swimming: Swimming is another great low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints. If you don’t have a pool, you can take your dog to a dog-friendly lake or river.
• Balance exercises: There are a number of balance exercises that you can do with your dog at home. For example, you can have them stand on a wobble board or balance cushion. You can also have them walk over a series of obstacles, such as cones or boxes.

Interventions

In addition to exercise, there are a number of other interventions that can help to prevent your dog from crossing their back legs when walking. These include:

• Weight management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is important for their overall health and well-being, including their joint health. Excess weight can put extra stress on the joints, which can lead to pain and inflammation.
• Supplements: There are a number of supplements that can help to support joint health and reduce inflammation. These include things like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Assistive devices: If your dog has severe hip or joint problems, they may benefit from using an assistive device, such as a harness or sling. These devices can help to support your dog’s weight and improve their mobility.

It is important to note that any intervention should be discussed with your veterinarian first. They can help you to choose the best approach for your dog’s individual needs.

Could muscle weakness or imbalances be a contributing factor to my dog’s back leg crossing?

Muscle weakness or imbalances can be a contributing factor to your dog’s back leg crossing. When a dog’s muscles are weak or imbalanced, it can affect their ability to walk normally. This can lead to them crossing their back legs in an attempt to compensate for the weakness or imbalance.

Some possible causes of muscle weakness or imbalances in dogs include:

• Injuries: Injuries to the muscles or nerves can lead to weakness and imbalance. This can include things like muscle strains, ligament tears, and nerve damage.
• Neurological disorders: Some neurological disorders, such as degenerative myelopathy (DM) and wobblers syndrome, can cause muscle weakness and imbalance.
• Myopathies: Myopathies are a group of diseases that affect the muscles. These diseases can cause muscle weakness, atrophy, and paralysis.
• Old age: As dogs age, their muscles can naturally weaken. This can lead to muscle imbalances and difficulty walking normally.

If you notice your dog crossing their back legs, it is important to take them to the veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Once any medical problems have been ruled out, you can work with your veterinarian to develop a plan to strengthen your dog’s muscles and improve their balance.

Does age play a role in a dog crossing their back legs while walking?

Age can play a role in a dog crossing their back legs while walking. As dogs age, their muscles can naturally weaken and their joints can become stiffer. This can make it difficult for them to walk normally and can lead to them crossing their back legs.

In addition, some age-related medical conditions can also cause dogs to cross their back legs. For example, arthritis is a common condition in older dogs that can cause pain and inflammation in the joints. This can make it difficult for dogs to walk normally and can lead to them crossing their back legs.

If you notice your older dog crossing their back legs, it is important to take them to the veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Once any medical problems have been ruled out, you can work with your veterinarian to develop a plan to help your dog maintain their mobility and quality of life.

There are a number of things you can do to help your older dog with back leg crossing, such as:

• Weight management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is important for their overall health and well-being, including their joint health. Excess weight can put extra stress on the joints, which can lead to pain and inflammation.
• Exercise: Regular exercise is important for dogs of all ages, but it is especially important for older dogs. Exercise helps to keep the muscles strong and the joints flexible. Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance and duration as your dog’s tolerance improves.
• Supplements: There are a number of supplements that can help to support joint health and reduce inflammation. These include things like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Assistive devices: If your dog has severe mobility problems, they may benefit from using an assistive device, such as a harness or sling. These devices can help to support your dog’s weight and improve their mobility.

Can crossing back legs be a temporary or transient behavior in dogs?

Crossing back legs can be a temporary or transient behavior in dogs. Some possible reasons for a dog to cross their back legs temporarily include:

• Excitement or playfulness: Puppies and young dogs may cross their back legs when they are excited or playing. This is often seen as a sign of anticipation or excitement.
• Fear or anxiety: In some cases, a dog may cross their back legs when they are feeling fearful or anxious. This is often seen in dogs that are new to a situation or environment.
• Pain or discomfort: If a dog is experiencing pain or discomfort in their back legs, they may cross them in an attempt to relieve the pain. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a minor injury, arthritis, or hip dysplasia.
• Slippery or uneven surface: If a dog is walking on a slippery or uneven surface, they may cross their back legs in an attempt to maintain their balance.

If you notice your dog crossing their back legs temporarily, it is important to observe them carefully to see if there are any other signs of pain, discomfort, or fear. If there are, or if the behavior continues, it is best to take them to the veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Are there any recommended treatments or therapies for dogs that cross their back legs when walking?

The treatment or therapy recommended for a dog that crosses their back legs when walking will depend on the underlying cause. Once the cause has been diagnosed, your veterinarian will be able to recommend the best course of treatment.

Some possible treatments and therapies include:

• Medication: If your dog’s back leg crossing is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as arthritis or hip dysplasia, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to help manage the pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen your dog’s muscles and improve their range of motion. This can be especially helpful for dogs with neurological disorders or injuries.
• Massage therapy: Massage therapy can help to improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation. This can be beneficial for dogs with muscle weakness or imbalances.
• Assistive devices: If your dog has severe mobility problems, they may benefit from using an assistive device, such as a harness or sling. These devices can help to support your dog’s weight and improve their mobility.

In addition to these treatments and therapies, there are a number of things you can do at home to help your dog with back leg crossing, such as:

• Weight management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is important for their overall health and well-being, including their joint health. Excess weight can put extra stress on the joints, which can lead to pain and inflammation.
• Exercise: Regular exercise is important for dogs of all ages, but it is especially important for dogs with back leg crossing. Exercise helps to keep the muscles strong and the joints flexible. Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance and duration as your dog’s tolerance improves.
• Supplements: There are a number of supplements that can help to support joint health and reduce inflammation. These include things like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids.

It is important to note that any treatment or therapy should be discussed with your veterinarian first. They can help you to choose the best approach for your dog’s individual needs.

How can I support my dog’s comfort and mobility if they frequently cross their back legs while walking?

There are a number of things you can do to support your dog’s comfort and mobility if they frequently cross their back legs while walking:

• Keep them at a healthy weight. Excess weight can put extra stress on the joints and make it more difficult for your dog to walk normally.
• Provide regular exercise. Exercise helps to keep the muscles strong and the joints flexible. Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance and duration as your dog’s tolerance improves.
• Use a harness instead of a collar. A harness distributes the pressure more evenly across your dog’s chest, which can help to reduce pain and discomfort.
• Provide a comfortable place to rest. Make sure your dog has a soft and supportive bed to sleep on. You may also want to consider using a raised bed, which can be easier for your dog to get in and out of.
• Use assistive devices if needed. If your dog has severe mobility problems, they may benefit from using an assistive device, such as a harness or sling. These devices can help to support your dog’s weight and improve their mobility.
• Consider using supplements. There are a number of supplements that can help to support joint health and reduce inflammation. These include things like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids.

In addition to these things, you can also support your dog’s comfort and mobility by being patient and understanding. It may take some time for your dog to adjust to their new condition, and they may need your help getting around. Be sure to praise them for their efforts and offer them plenty of love and support.

Conclusion

The phenomenon of a “Dog crossing back legs when walking” encompasses a wide spectrum, from normal breed-specific behaviors to potential signs of underlying medical issues. While some dogs may naturally exhibit this behavior due to their breed’s characteristics or unique gait, it’s crucial for pet owners to remain vigilant.

Sudden, persistent, or distressing leg crossing should not be dismissed, as it may indicate discomfort or health concerns. To ensure the best possible quality of life for our canine companions, any significant changes in a dog’s gait should prompt a thorough veterinary examination to address and treat any potential issues promptly.