Wheelchairs for Dogs

When should you consider a wheelchair as an option for your dog?

Dogs experiencing back leg weakness or who have limited mobility may need a wheelchair to maintain a good quality of life. Knowing when to make this decision depends on observing your dog’s condition over time and understanding the options. This guide explains the signs to watch for, the conditions that would benefit from wheelchair use, and how to determine the best time to take action.

Deteriorating back leg mobility in dogs can manifest in various ways, signalling underlying health conditions. Here are the common signs, and the conditions they may lead to, their causes. 

Signs of Back Leg Weakness in Dogs

Difficulty Standing or Sitting
Dogs may struggle to rise from a seated position or have trouble sitting down. This indicates reduced muscle strength or coordination.

Limping or Dragging Feet
They might drag their hind paws or limp, causing uneven wear on nails. You may notice this on different surfaces for example slippery floors, or on tarmac as opposed to dirt tracks.

Loss of Balance
Pups who stumble or sway, indicating muscle weakness or neurological issues.

Knuckling Over
This refers to walking on the top of the paw instead of the pads.

Tremors or Spasms
Muscle tremors in the hind legs can signal nerve or muscle issues.

Pain or Sensitivity
Indicated when you hear a whine, growl, or feel a resistance to touch near their back or hips.

Decreased Activity Levels
Dogs may avoid walking, running, or climbing stairs. They may take a lot longer to get up or answer your call if the hind muscles are stiff.

Incontinence
Weakness in the hindquarters can sometimes lead to difficulty controlling bladder or bowel movements.

Conditions that would improve with wheelchair use

Consulting your vet will help ensure an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan to reduce symptoms and keep your dog as comfortable as possible.

Arthritis
Chronic joint pain can make movement difficult. A dog wheelchair reduces weight-bearing stress on painful joints during walks and play.

Hip Dysplasia
Malformed hip joints can cause weakness and pain. Wheels 4 dogs provide support, reducing discomfort depending on the severity of the condition.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Spinal disc issues can lead to partial paralysis or severe weakness. Wheelchairs often help dogs regain mobility after surgery or during recovery.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
This progressive spinal disease causes gradual paralysis of the hind legs. Rear wheelchairs are ideal to use for exercise and mobility with paralysed rear legs.

Trauma or Injury
Accidents causing spinal or leg injuries may result in temporary or permanent weakness. A wheelchair aids recovery or provides long-term support.

Neurological Disorders
Conditions affecting the nervous system can impair coordination and movement. Wheelchairs stabilize the dog, improving mobility

Old Age
Senior canines often face declining muscle strength and joint health. Ensure they stay active & improve their mental well-being despite aging with this device. 

Read our guide to choosing the right wheelchair for your dog
along with tips to train your dog to use their wheelchair.

UK Charities who can assist you

If your dog is experiencing mobility issues, several amazing UK-based charities offer wheelchairs to assist pet owners. You can reach out to them for support, advice or to donate. 

Winston's Wheels
Winston's Wheels loans wheelchairs to dogs across the UK and Northern Ireland. They assess applications and provide equipment to those unable to afford their own. Regular updates on the dog's progress are appreciated.

Pumpkin & Friends
This charity offers wheelchairs to dogs in need, focusing on improving their quality of life. They operate throughout the UK and have a straightforward application process.

Broken Biscuits
Broken Biscuits provides wheelchairs and other mobility aids to dogs requiring assistance. They work directly with veterinary professionals to ensure the best fit and support for each dog.

UK Dogs on Wheels
A facebook group for anyone in the UK with a dog that uses dog wheels (cart) or anyone thinking of getting one for their pet that has Degenerative Myleopathy, spinal/nerve injury or other problems with mobility. Members can share their experiences, good or bad, discuss different types/makes of dog wheels and other helpful products and help anyone thinking of going down that route

If you need any advise please contact us or browse our wheelchairs and mobility products for more info.