gimpy left hind leg

Question
Our two year old 9 lb. female spayed poodle has recently been running three-legged when arising from a sleeping position.  We have checked her feet, nails and joints and she has no hot spots, sores or tenderness. On gentle manipulation bilaterally her joints move with ease.  She has missed jumping on the sofa a couple times, taking a mild 'hit' but immediately retrying and succeeding and she can run like a deer, actually, lopes like one as well.  She does not whimper or complain or tense up when touched. Any suggestions?  Thank you.

Answer
Hello Patt,
I am not a Vet so this is only my opinion, but it sounds like a nerve thing to me.  She could be sleeping on her leg funny causing the blood supply to be cut off, and when she gets up its like her leg is asleep.  
I would suggest getting her a supportive mat to sleep on that will keep her bones up off the hard floor when she sleeps.  They have mats out there that have memory foam and joint approved beds, but all you really need is about 4-5 inches of foam to help support her bones and joints.  

You should also get her on some Glucosamine and Chondroitin, and MSM wouldn't be bad either, to help build up her joints, because even if they are good now, she could have problems in the future.  

Lastly, you should consult your Vet about what is happening when she gets up and see if he/she can suggest anything that could help her.

I hope this helps you some.  If you have other questions for me about this or other questions in general, please feel free to ask.

Thanks for using AllExperts.com,
Kim