My Cocker Spaniel Is Tripping Over His Paws!

by Christina
(Kenosha Wisconsin )

My Buddy

My Buddy

My cocker spaniel, Buddy, is 9 years old and will be 10 in November. When he walks he seems to trip like he forgets to pick up his paws and he seems to not want to go on walks like he used to.

I took him to the vets and he said he's healthy so is it age?

Reply from Pauline (Web Owner)

Hi Christina, Buddy is getting on a bit, but if your vet says he's healthy I don't think you've anything to worry about. We all slow down a little as we get older and so it's only natural that Buddy may not always want to go for a walk like he used to, he's no longer a young man.

As for 'forgetting' to pick up his paws, do you mean he stumbles? Perhaps he's just tired? If your vet isn't worried, I don't think there's anything you should be concerned about. Keep an eye on him and if his 'tripping' gets worse, give the vet a call and ask him to take a look at Buddy again.

I'm sure Buddy is okay Christina, and I know it's easier said, than done, but please, don't worry.

Kind regards,
Pauline

Comments for My Cocker Spaniel Is Tripping Over His Paws!

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starstarstarstarstar 		tripping over paws
by: Anonymous

Though familiar with Cockers, as friends have them, my experience with a larger breed. When my last dog began tripping over his own paws, it was considered to be a neuropathy. Not followed through as MRI scans are out of my budget (and he's older and no longer insured) and I was told it wouldn't be definitive anyway, other simple tests having ruled out some potential diagnoses such as protruding inter-vertebral disc etc.

He was developing laryngeal paralysis alongside that, which was ultimately operated on, mega improvement - then he suddenly unexpectedly died less than 2 mths post LP repair. Hence almost certainly a neuropathic condition.

Observe the paws: is s/he turning one (or more) under when walking on it? Is there also a bit of weakness in the hindquarters generally? (Or front, whichever is stumbling!) Be aware it could be more than just a Cocker-thing and age and manage accordingly. Probably the only treatment other than your TLC and mindfulness when walking (grass v. concrete for instance) is steroids (via the vet)and be watchful for abrasions.
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starstarstar 		Tripping Cocker Spaniel
by: Cassandra

Simple, Cocker Spaniels have big clumsy FEET!
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starstarstarstarstar 		Tripping Cockers!
by: Sandy

I definitely think it's a Spaniel thing Laura! My Cocker does the same thing; she's always tripping over her own feet. I snigger quietly to myself because I don't think she likes being laughed at, but I just can't help myself. (Tee Hee!)
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starstarstarstarstar 		Clumsy!!
by: Laura W

I have a 19 month old cocker spaniel and he sometimes trips over his own paws too! I was a bit worried at first but have come to the conclusion that he is just quite clumsy and forgets how big his own feet are!

He also sometimes walks straight in to things. I too can't help but laugh at him. Maybe it's a spaniel thing!
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starstarstarstarstar 		Dog Tripping
by: Sasha

I really wouldn't worry about it. My cocker spaniel also trips over occasionally. I know I shouldn't laugh, but it's terribly funny to see. I think some dogs are just a little clumsy, like sometimes we can be clumsy and trip over.

Do you keep his paws trimmed and are his claws cut regularly. I don't think this will have any bearing on your dog's 'problem' but it may help.

Hope your cocker spaniel is okay.

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