My German shepherd/Akita starting having the same sort of problems with his back legs when he turned 10. The vet said it was something to do with his discs tweaking his spinal cord. There was nothing that could be done about it. Unfortunately, these big dogs just don't live nearly as long as we would like. I still miss my sweet boy like crazy, and he's been gone for 11 years.
May 02, 2010 Rating
familiar with the problem by: Anonymous
I'm so sorry that you have to deal with this. We had a pure bred akita that this happened to about age 11. It was down hill from there. He finally lost the use of his back legs and hips. It seemed so mysterios.
After sharing our story, we realized that this is a common problem in the akita breed late in their life. It was so sad. We just love that breed. We want to get another one, but don't want to ever go through that again.
Although the breed is so gentle, loving, protective and loyal that it is almost worth it. I am sorry and know your pain. Possibly this is not what is going on with your dog, but if it is the problem will gradually get worse until he can no longer walk.
Jan 25, 2010 Rating
Cut back on the food by: Anonymous
Your dog is very obviously overweight and if she's been overfed her whole life that's why she's had joint problems just like obese people.
Jan 05, 2010 Rating
German Shepherd/Akita mix joint issues by: Debbie
I would definitely suggest that you start giving your big baby some good quality Glucosamine. For it's age and weight it may also be having issues with arthritis too.
I give Glucosamine to my 2 GSD girls (both are 9 1/2 yrs old) and it really helps them - in fact I can really tell a difference if I ever run out or if I forget to give it to them in the way that they act. Also, keep exercise to a lower level, slower pace. Good luck.
