I hope someone might be able to give me some ideas on a problem my friends GSD dog has.
The dog is about 5 to 6 years old it is an ex RAF trained dog. The dog in question appears fit and healthy in everyway, but it is increasingly having difficulty with it's back legs. The problem starts with the dog suddenly appearing to be stiff, and movement seems difficult, if the dog rests for a shortish period it appears to have great difficulty moving, and has great difficulty in getting up, although this does very slowly and gradually wear off. It is almost as though the muscles are weak. It is not arthritus. The local vet is wondering if it might be a circulation problem, although the owners feel this is doubtful. Any ideas what this might be or any way the dog might be helped would be much appreciated.

Have your friends tried a chiropractor? It might be worthwhile.
The only other thing that came to mind was CDRM, though the vet should have ruled this out by now. Does he ever drag a hind foot whilst out walking, etc?

I'll check and find out about the dragging foot. Also CDRM please refresh my memory?

Otherwise known as Degenerative Myelopathy http://neuro.vetmed.ufl.edu/neuro/DM_Web/DMofGS.htm

Thanks Jacqui, this sounds exactly like my friend's shepherd. I shall suggest it to them.

CDRM was the first thing that sprang into my mind as well - fingers crossed that it turns out to be something less serious.

Lisa
xx