Rottweiler with weak hind legs

[roxienicole]

Roxie is a seven-month-old rottweiler. . I have had her for a couple days. She has a history of abuse, but a loving and gentle disposition. She was kept chained in a garage for most of her life. Her hind legs muscles are very poorly developed and sometimes her feet slide out from under her. She tires quickly and I have seen her take some hard tumbles when her legs failed to hold her. She is lively and active and wants to do all the things a 7-month-old puppy does. My question is could this condition be caused by a lack of exercise and improper nutrition? Can I expect to reverse it with proper exercise and nutrition or is she doomed to have health issues and deteriorating mobility throughout her live? I am in love with her already, but would like to know realistically what I am getting myself into.

[MichiPrincess]

My Rottweiler,Pretty.her hind legs are weak and she can't get up,well she can,but she has to drag herself and it really breaks my heart and when I look at her, I can see her bones and when she walks she's shaking then she falls and can only move all four a little bit..PLEASE HELP ME OUT!

[Misfits4Me]

Hi..I adopted a Bichon (10 mos. ago) that also has hind leg issues.  He had been locked is a 2X2 makeshift cage for 4yrs. (His whole life). Damn them!!!!  I noticed immediately that something was NOT right. I put him on a Glucosamine/ Chondroitin Capsule (Which he will remain on for life). I also had him thoroughly checked out by his vet. With time and exercise and the freedom to build up his legs, he has made amazing progress. Just wish I could say the same thing for his potty training!  :)  I believe there's even a greater chance of you reversing this because she is still very much a puppy. Good luck to you both and thank you for adopting her......Keep us posted....Karla

[Me967]

Sorry you are having a hard time with Roxie.  Have you made an appointment with your/a vet yet?  It sounds like she could have a few issues going on.  I wouldn't say she is doomed.  I'm not saying there isn't an issue either though.  

If she was malnourished and abused some blood work and a good exam would be your first step.  They are beautiful dogs.  I hope you get good results from your vet.  While you're there have your questions wrote down to ask the vet.  Watch and write down, how long she exercises before this happens and exactly how they give out.  Do they shake before hand, do they knuckle under, etc. and let them know.  I hope you receive a good answer.  I would get her in as soon as possible though for a baseline/new dog apt. though even if there wasn't an issue.  Take care and best wishes to you and Roxie.  ;-)