Ever heard of a dog “knuckling”? It’s a term you might not know, but if you’ve seen your furry friend walk with their paw turned inwards, you know what we’re talking about. Think of it as a dog’s version of “walking on their wrists.”
What is Dog Knuckling?
Dog knuckling is a condition where a dog walks with their paw turned inwards, so that their knuckles touch the ground. It can affect one or more paws, and can be a sign of several underlying issues.
Causes of Dog Knuckling
Why does my dog walk on their knuckles? There are a few common culprits:
1. Neurological Issues
- Neurological disorders are often behind knuckling. Problems with the nerves in the paw can lead to weakness and loss of coordination.
- Dr. Nguyen Van Thuong, a renowned veterinarian from Hanoi, says in his book, “Understanding Canine Behavior,” that neurological conditions are a frequent culprit.
2. Muscular Weakness
- Muscle atrophy or weakness can also contribute to knuckling. When muscles are weak, they can’t properly support the paw, leading to it turning inwards.
- Dr. Hoang Mai Anh, a veterinary specialist in Hanoi, points out that muscle weakness can be caused by various factors, including injury, age, and certain medical conditions.
3. Pain
- Pain in the paw or leg can cause a dog to avoid putting weight on it, leading to knuckling.
- Dr. Tran Thi Lan, a Hanoi-based vet, emphasizes that pain can be a significant factor, and a thorough examination is essential to identify the root cause.
4. Deformities
- Congenital deformities or bone abnormalities can also contribute to knuckling. This is especially true in young dogs.
- Dr. Vuong Duc Minh, a veterinary surgeon in Hanoi, warns that bone abnormalities should be diagnosed early to prevent further complications.
What Should I Do?
It’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian if you notice your dog knuckling. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend treatment.
What If It’s Just a Habit?
While unlikely, some dogs may knuckle as a habit. If your dog is otherwise healthy, they may be doing it because they enjoy the feeling or because it’s become a learned behavior. In this case, your vet may recommend physical therapy to strengthen the paw muscles and encourage proper foot placement.
Treatment for Knuckling
Treatment for knuckling depends on the underlying cause. It may include:
- Medications to manage pain or inflammation
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve mobility
- Surgery to correct bone deformities
- Lifestyle changes to promote weight loss or reduce stress
Knuckling: A Look Beyond the Physical
In some Vietnamese folk beliefs, knuckling can be seen as a sign of imbalance in the dog’s chi, or life energy. It’s believed that harmonizing the dog’s energy through practices like feng shui or traditional Chinese medicine can help address the issue.
Don’t Ignore the Signs!
Knuckling is not a condition to ignore. It can be a sign of a serious underlying issue, but early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in your dog’s health and well-being.
Dog Knuckling: Diagnosis
What Else Can I Do?
- Monitor your dog’s behavior. Are they showing any signs of pain or discomfort?
- Check their diet. Are they getting enough nutrients?
- Ensure their weight is healthy. Excess weight can put stress on joints and muscles.
Remember: If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, always consult with your veterinarian.
Dog Knuckling: Physical Therapy
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