Software
Houzz Logo Print
share_oh

3 legged dogs

9 years ago

Just curious... years ago when I was volunteering with our local HS, the vet then told me that amputating a leg on a large breed dog was harder on the dog if it was a front leg - as they carry most of their weight in the front as opposed to the back legs.

In talking to our vet yesterday about our dog with a swollen leg (separate post) he mentioned worst case scenario would be having to amputate her leg but she'd be fine with 3 legs and because it was a front leg it would be easier for her than a back leg.

She's a golden retriever, about 80 lbs, which we are working on getting 10 lbs off of her, but regardless, she's a large dog.

So this is conflicting info from two vets... just wondered if anyone has heard either of these theories or has any experience with a larger dog losing a front leg?

Of course I'm praying that amputation will not be necessary for my dog at all!

Comments (4)