It starts subtly. You hear a soft dragging sound as your dog walks across the floor. You notice the tops of their paws are scuffed or even wounded. Then you realise — your dog isn’t walking quite right anymore.
This is called knuckling, and it’s often more than just a “clumsy step.” It can be a red flag for underlying neurological or muscular issues. The good news? You’ve found the right guide.
In this article, we’ll break down:
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What knuckling really is (and what it isn’t),
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Why it happens,
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When to worry,
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How to help your dog stay mobile — including tools like supportive dog wheelchairs that can dramatically improve quality of life.
What Is Knuckling in Dogs?
Knuckling is when a dog drags the top of their paw on the ground, often causing them to walk on the front part of their foot (the dorsal surface) instead of the pads. It looks like their paw is flipping under, and it can affect either the front or back legs.
Knuckling isn’t a disease itself — it’s a symptom. But it’s one that shouldn't be ignored.
Common Causes of Knuckling in Dogs
Knuckling often indicates a loss of proprioception — your dog’s awareness of where their limbs are. This can happen for many reasons:
Neurological Disorders
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Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) – Read our full guide here
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Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
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Tumours on the spinal cord
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Stroke-like events (fibrocartilaginous embolism)
Orthopaedic Issues
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Injury to the spine or limb
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Arthritis or joint instability
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Hip dysplasia
Breed Predispositions
Breeds like Dachshunds, Corgis, and Boxers are more prone to spinal issues that can lead to knuckling.
Toxicity or Illness
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Infections (e.g., distemper, meningitis)
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Tick-borne diseases
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Nutritional deficiencies (especially B12)
Early Signs to Watch Out For
Knuckling often starts subtly. If you notice any of the following, it's worth a vet visit:
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Scuffed toenails or wounds on the top of the paw
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Unsteady walking or hesitation to move
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Dragging back legs or stumbling on stairs
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Sudden weakness in one limb
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Hesitation to jump or stand
Important: In small dogs, early signs of IVDD can look very similar to knuckling. Here’s our full breakdown on how to catch IVDD early.
Diagnosing the Root Cause
Your vet may recommend:
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Neurological exam
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X-rays or MRI of the spine
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Blood work (to rule out infections or metabolic issues)
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Spinal tap (in rare cases)
Don’t wait — delaying diagnosis can mean permanent nerve damage.
Is Knuckling in Dogs Reversible?
It depends on the cause.
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If caused by inflammation, injury, or a herniated disc caught early — yes, recovery is possible.
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If caused by degenerative conditions like DM — it may progress slowly, and treatment focuses on comfort and quality of life.
How to Help a Dog That’s Knuckling
1. Use Mobility Aids
If your dog is struggling to walk or dragging their paws, consider using a rear-support dog wheelchair. This reduces pressure on the back legs, stabilises movement, and prevents further injury.
Even part-time use (e.g., walks, outdoor time) can:
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Improve confidence
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Reduce pain and fatigue
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Prevent paw injuries
Bonus: Using a wheelchair stimulates the mind. Dogs feel more in control — and it shows.
2. Protect the Paws
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Use booties with grip or knuckle-protection pads
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Keep nails trimmed to prevent tearing
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Check paws daily for cuts or abrasions
3. Try Proprioception Exercises
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Balance boards
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Walking on uneven surfaces (like grass or sand)
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Light resistance training with vet supervision
These can help the brain “relearn” proper paw placement.
4. Rehabilitation Therapy
Many dogs benefit from:
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Laser therapy
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Hydrotherapy
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Acupuncture
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Physiotherapy from a certified canine rehab specialist
5. Support With Nutrition
Ask your vet about:
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Omega-3s (for nerve + joint support)
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B-complex vitamins
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Anti-inflammatory supplements like turmeric or green-lipped mussel
Real Talk: When It’s Time to Act
Many owners wait too long — thinking it’s “just age.” But knuckling often signals something deeper.
Early intervention means:
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Less nerve damage
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Better recovery odds
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Lower long-term care costs
And if recovery isn’t possible, mobility tools like wheelchairs offer a second chance at life. Your dog doesn’t need to stay inside. They can still chase squirrels — just with a little help.
Final Thoughts: Your Dog’s Life Isn’t Over
Knuckling can feel like a scary diagnosis — but it’s not the end. With the right tools, care, and awareness, dogs with knuckling can live happy, active lives.
If your pup is struggling to walk or dragging their paws, check out our Small Dog Wheelchair. It’s lightweight, vet-approved, and designed for dogs with mobility conditions like knuckling, IVDD, or DM.
And don’t forget to explore more guides on our Dog Wheelchairs Blog.
