7 week old rottweiler puppy stopped walking

by Jessica
(Saginaw, MI)

Hello. We currently have a 7 week old rottweiler puppy that was doing fine until this morning. This morning we noticed that he is crying non-stop and can't use his hind legs. He will still raise up on his front legs but his hind legs are stretched out behind him like they have been broken or something.

There is no one in the backroom with him except his mother. She had a litter of six which all of the other pups had no problem. He has no problem nursing from his mother or releasing his urine or stool. He still appears healthy beside the fact it seems something is causing him great pain and keep him from walking and using his rear legs. He has had no problems walking until now.

We can't afford at this time what the vet would charge just to see him, then charge us whatever it would cost to treat him. Thank you for any advice that you can give me.





Hi Jessica
I'm so sorry to hear about your puppy. It's horrible for him to be in pain like that and must be very upsetting for you.

I am also sorry to say that he urgently needs veterinary attention, this is not something that will get better by itself, or benefit from waiting.

It sounds to me as though he has a problem with his hips, he may have dislocated them both. Rottweilers are one of the breeds that can suffer from hip dysplasia and other related joint problems.

If the parents haven't been OFA'd (X-ray screening of the hips to evaluate the joints), then it's quite possible they have a hereditary problem that they've passed on to this puppy.

I do understand how expensive veterinary care is, but in this case there is no other option for this puppy. He is in pain, and could be crippled for life if you don't get him some help. I would recommend calling your vet and asking if they will consider a payment plan option if treatment is necessary. Some vets will be willing to work with you.

I wish you the very best of luck with this puppy, and hope that he gets help soon.