- Knuckling in dogs is when they curl their paw and walk on the top versus the paw pads. It is a symptom of an underlying condition.
- A knuckling brace for dogs helps correct paw position and offers support during recovery or for the pet’s lifetime.
- A custom brace made from durable materials gives the best fit for support and maximizes comfort.
- When knuckling is first observed in your pet, be sure to visit the vet promptly for a diagnosis of the condition.
If you’ve ever seen a dog curling their paw under to walk instead of using their paw pads, it’s a very concerning sight. This condition is called knuckling, and it can greatly impact a dog’s quality of life. This behavior can cause pain, irritation, and sores. To correct this improper position in dogs, a knuckling brace can be used to correct the position of the leg, allowing them to move naturally again.
What Is Knuckling in Dogs, and What Causes It?
Knuckling is most often observed in the rear legs, but it can also occur in the front legs. Instead of using their paw pads to cushion their steps, a dog will curl their paw under to walk on the top of their toes. This action is a symptom of an underlying condition. It’s important not to ignore it and to see a veterinarian for a diagnosis, as knuckling may indicate a progressive condition.
So what causes knuckling in dogs? It is a condition that can be caused by injury, neurological disorders, muscle weakness, a degenerative disease, spinal injury, or other issues. Your vet will help determine if your pet has a simple injury that will heal naturally or if your pet could benefit from medication, physical therapy, surgery, or a dog knuckling brace.
Aside from a dog curling its paw under, you may also notice symptoms like:
- Difficulty getting up or when standing
- Appearing wobbly and stumbling often
- Limping
- Less desire to go on walks
- Weakness or muscle loss in the affected limb
- Uneven gait
A simple cut can be bandaged, and the pet given rest to heal. For more serious injuries and lifetime conditions, the aid of a hock or carpal brace for knuckling in dogs can prevent improper motion and provide the support needed for correction. Braces can be used in conjunction with therapy for conditions that may improve, or they can be worn for the life of the pet when necessary.
Hock vs Carpal Braces for Knuckling in Dogs
Hock braces are more common for knuckling in dogs as they support the rear legs. A spinal cord injury or nerve damage are examples of reasons why a dog might be knuckling in one or both of its rear legs. While less common, knuckling can also happen in a dog’s front legs from issues like neurological problems or injuries. In the case of front leg knuckling in dogs, a carpal brace is used for stability.
Key Features to Look for in a Knuckling Brace
Choosing a high-quality brace for knuckling in dogs is very important. The right brace will be comfortable and durable. Here are some features to look for in a rear or front paw dog knuckling brace:
- Padding to ensure all-day comfort
- Easy-to-use straps
- Lightweight, human-grade orthotic materials
- Custom-made design that fits your pet perfectly
Choosing the Right Knuckling Brace for Your Dog
Because dogs come in all different canine shapes and sizes, a custom-made brace is the best option to give your pet the proper fit and support. At My Pet’s Brace, we offer consultations to asses your pet’s veterinary diagnosis and find the best option of carpal or hock dog knuckling brace. You can come to our cast and fit locations or work with a vet or pet rehab specialist to take a custom cast of your pet’s leg. From there, we will custom-make the perfect rear or front paw dog knuckling brace from durable, human-grade materials.
Tips for Getting Your Dog Used to a Knuckling Brace
Once your custom brace is made, it’s time for a gradual introduction of having your pet wear it. Your pet should wear the brace for 2-3 short walks at first, gradually increasing the time it is worn over the next few weeks. During the break-in period, you’ll need to check that the brace is comfortable and not causing any skin irritation. Our experts will help with adjustments if they are needed. Always use positive reinforcement to help them get used to their new brace, and never use it when your pet is sleeping at night or in a crate.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering what the cause of knuckling is in your dog, don’t go down the rabbit hole of self-diagnosing your pet. The sooner you talk to a veterinarian, the better, as they can help prevent matters from getting progressively worse with a proper diagnosis. They will discuss the best options for your pet with you. A rear or front paw dog knuckling brace may be just what your pet needs to find better support and a higher quality of life. Contact My Pet’s Brace today to schedule your consultation.