Hind legs Weakness
in Pomeranian
Jan/30/26
Overview
What Causes My Pomeranian to Limp? Overview
Toy breed dogs are more likely than other breeds to suffer from problems that cause them to limp. It's possible that you need to take your Pom to the vet, but before you call to make an appointment, let's talk about some of the possible causes of your little ball of fluff limping on either its front or hind (back) leg. Sometimes it is a simple matter that can be dealt with at home… And sometimes it is a huge red flag to seek professional medical help… So, let’s see if we can sort out what happened to your Pom and why he or she is hitching a leg up.
Reason 1: A limp may be caused by one or more paws. A Pomeranian can walk with a sluggish step or prefer one paw over the other due to two common problems with the paws. The first is a scratch on the paw pad. The pads are made of skin—indeed, very thick skin—but because they are made of skin, they can be hurt or damaged. Burns and embedded elements/splinters are the most common causes of paw pad injuries. Burns can occur quickly.
which is a factor that many owners overlook. Imagine this: it is a gloriously sunny day, the air is warm, and the natural world is begging you to go for a walk with your Pomeranian. After securing his harness and putting on your sandals, you realize that you don't even need to wear a sweater because the weather is so pleasant.... You and Pom are having a good time as you walk down the street. You are wearing footwear now.
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Your Pom is walking barefoot! Despite the fact that dogs have thick skin on their footpads, this does not make them impervious to damage. Pavement can get very hot! If the temperature is above 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius), you should put your hand on the ground to see if you should take any precautions.
Because there are things you can do. You might want to stick to a schedule that includes walking in the early morning and late evening on hot days. In the summer, it's best to go outside before 10 a.m. and after 7 p.m. because the sun isn't as bright and the ground has cooled. Staying in shaded areas or taking frequent breaks in the shade can also be beneficial. Small pebbles are the primary cause of embedded object damage, which is the other kind of damage.
Small rocks can get stuck between the paw pads when walking outside on the grass or the sidewalk, causing a lot of pain and difficulty walking. People who walk along the beach (or any area with sandy shores) frequently encounter this issue as well. The very best thing that you can do to protect your Pomeranian from hot tarred roads and tiny pebbles getting stuck in the paws is to put some cute doggie shoes on him or her…. While dog shoes are fashionable and trendy, they also serve a serious purpose! You can walk or hike almost anywhere with the right shoes, avoiding burns and protecting your Pom from particles. Long hairs that grow out between the pads are another factor that can cause a Pomeranian to limp. It is one area that many owners don’t think about when grooming their Pom.
However, there are times when long hairs will grow there, pulling on the skin and causing pain when the dog walks. This can make a Pomeranian limp or prefer one leg. You can easily fix this by doing some basic grooming. You should clip hairs so that they are even with the bottom of the pads.
Do not try to cut fur that is between the pads. Only trim the PASSED growth. If the skin looks very irritated, it should be looked at by a veterinarian, as the pull of the hair may have caused a breakage of the skin, and there is a chance that it has become infected.
As a result, if your dog is limping, please check his or her paws for burns, injuries, splinters, embedded sand or particles, and/or long hairs.
Reason 2: This tiny toy breed dog unfortunately has a high risk of injury. The Pomeranian breed is prone to both luxating patella and hip dysplasia (both of which will cause limping, and this can affect not only puppies but adult dogs as well). While a Pom may be predisposed to this condition, it can be brought on by jumping too
hard or with the wrong movement.
Running or jumping from a sofa or other piece of furniture can result in this happening. The majority of owners do not discover a problem until several days later. This is because often a dog will only let out a little yelp when the mishap occurs… It is only 2 to 3 days later, when the area begins to swell, that the pain sets in… It is then that a Pomeranian may begin to limp and/or show other signs of discomfort.
Bring your Pom to a reputable and experienced veterinarian's clinic for testing if you believe this to be the cause. X-rays and other diagnostic procedures will be carried out in the event that either of these injuries is thought to be the cause of the limping.
Reason 3: Other medical conditions
This could be anything from a minor muscle strain to a serious kidney infection. Because the reason for limping can actually be very serious, we highly encourage Pomeranian owners to seek treatment with the veterinarian. It will cost money, but we strongly recommend that all owners set up a fund so that, in the event of an accident or medical issue, they can bring a Pom to get help without hesitation.
Why Is My Pomeranian Walking on Its Hind Legs? Understanding the Causes and What to Do
Pomeranians are known for their fluffy coats, lively personalities, and sometimes, quirky behavior. If you’ve noticed your Pomeranian walking on just its hind legs, it’s natural to feel concerned. While this behavior can be harmless in some cases, it may also signal an underlying health or behavioral issue. Let’s explore the possible reasons behind this behavior and how to address it.
Possible Reasons for Hind Leg Walking in Pomeranians
1. Playfulness or Attention-Seeking
Pomeranians are small, intelligent dogs that thrive on interaction. If your pup is standing or walking on its hind legs during play or when trying to reach a toy, it might simply be a way to engage with you. This behavior is often accompanied by excited barking, tail wagging, or pawing to play. If your dog stops when ignored and resumes for attention, it’s likely a learned habit.
2. Dominance or Territorial Behavior
In some cases, a Pomeranian may stand on its hind legs to assert dominance or intimidate others—especially in multi-pet households. This is a natural canine instinct but is more common in untrained or poorly socialized dogs.
3. Patellar Luxation (Kneecap Dislocation)
Patellar luxation is a common issue in small breeds like Pomeranians. When the kneecap slips out of its groove, your dog may hop, skip, or walk on its hind legs to compensate. If your pup seems to "lock" or "unlock" a leg suddenly, or if you notice limping, this could indicate the condition. A vet can diagnose it with a physical exam or X-rays.
4. Hip Dysplasia or Arthritis
While more common in larger breeds, hip dysplasia (misalignment of the hip joint) or arthritis can also affect Pomeranians, especially as they age. If your dog is walking on its hind legs due to pain or stiffness, it may also exhibit reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or exercise.
5. Nerve or Spinal Issues
Neurological problems, such as spinal compression or nerve damage, can cause abnormal movement patterns. If your dog is dragging its legs, losing coordination, or showing signs of weakness, consult a vet immediately.
. Skin Allergies or Irritation
Pomeranians are prone to skin allergies (from food, fleas, or environmental irritants) that cause intense itching. You may notice your dog kick its hind legs or scratch excessively, mimicking hind-leg walking.
7. Learned Behavior
If your dog has been rewarded (even unintentionally) for standing on its hind legs—such as getting treats or affection during the behavior—it may repeat it to gain rewards.
When to See a Veterinarian
If the behavior is sudden, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms (pain, limping, lethargy, or changes in appetite), seek veterinary care. A professional can rule out medical causes like patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, or neurological issues. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for long-term mobility.
What You Can Do at Home
- Observe and Note Patterns: Track when the behavior occurs (e.g., during play, while waiting for food, or when anxious).
- Avoid Reinforcing the Behavior: Don’t give attention or treats when your dog stands on its hind legs unless you’re training it to sit or lie down instead.
- Train with Positive Reinforcement: Teach commands like “sit” or “down” to redirect the behavior. Reward calm or correct movements.
- Ensure Comfort: Provide a cozy bed, joint supplements (if recommended by a vet), and a balanced diet to support your dog’s health.
Final Thoughts
A Pomeranian walking on its hind legs can stem from a mix of medical, behavioral, or environmental factors. While some causes are benign, others require prompt attention. By staying observant and proactive, you can ensure your furry friend stays happy, healthy, and on all fours.
If you’re ever in doubt, a vet visit is always worth it. At the end of the day, your bond with your pup means you’ll know when something feels off—and that intuition is your best tool as a pet parent. 🐾
Got more questions about your Pomeranian’s health or behavior? Share your story in the comments below!
WRITTEN BY
Nikki Nguyen: I am from Washington, DC.
Pom-Pom Personality Blog! As an avid pet lover, I am excited to share my experiences, tips, and tricks with fellow pet owners!
