my dog is walking flat footed.

Question
My 11 year old chihuahua has started walking flat footed like a bear.  First heal then toes...She has had xrays and exams by many vets and know one can find an answer,  She gets tired standing and alternates which paw is on the ground to get relief.  She likes to go for walks but not for long..I wind up carring her after a while. She runs, but makes noise with her paws like a dog 10x her size...Any ideas?

Answer
Hi Leonardo!

Flat feet is not a serious problem. There are a few dogs that walk and run flat footed and I noticed that their nails did not wear away fast. You will need to routinely trim their nails or you will encounter nail problems when you work the dog. Two years ago my friends shorthair, who is a bit flat footed, split his nail across the front and back a half an inch. It caused him severe pain when my friend touched it and he had to take him to the vet. They ripped the loose piece off and he was back to hunting again later that day. If the dog is walking funny, like its feet are at an angle instead of forward, then you may want to consult a vet and have the joints checked out. But if the dogs are only walking with their feet flatly and forward it shouldn't be a problem.

I hope this is helpful and please keep me updated! Sending wagging tails your way! ...Nikki...