Accepted Answer

It sounds like you have two problems with him the leg and an itching issue.

With this mix for the leg issue I'd suspect a knee problem either a ligament that is torn or partly torn or a knee cap that floats in and out. Follow links to read about the health issues

http://marvistavet.com/html/body_ruptured_anterior_cruciate_lig.html

http://www.marvistavet.com/html/medial_luxating_patella.html

But both those breeds are also very prone to spinal issues so it may be nerves pinched by a disc problem that is causing the lameness.

And both breeds can have hip dysplasia issues too

http://marvistavet.com/html/body_hip_dysplasia.html

With the itching it could be flea bite allergies (just one bite can make a dog itch all over) or another allergic reaction and as both breeds can have low thyroid problems that might be an underlying issue causing the allergies to show up.

http://marvistavet.com/html/body_hypothyroidism.html

 

Paw licking, itching and skin chewing are often signs of allergies. You may see red staining to the fur in the licked areas or raw spots where the dog chews itself.

The skin itches from allergies, the dog licks and chews trying to soothe the itch, making the skin raw and allowing other infections to set in which may itch even more.

You can read about allergies and dermatitis in dogs here

http://www.lbah.com/allergy.htm

http://www.priory.com/vet/vetatop1.htm

Dogs can develop allergies to foods, even ones they eat all the time, and to inhaled items, and contact allergens such as rug cleaners, cedar beds, or chemicals including lawn chemicals or even flea bites.

I'd plan a vet visit to go over both problems and see what care is needed to resolve them.

Hope this helps you!

Expert:	NancyH
Pos. Feedback:	99.5 %
Accepts:
Answered:	10/5/2009

Dog Expert:Rescue, Train,Breed,Care

30+ yrs dog home vet care & nursing, rescue, behavior&training, responsible show breeding, genetics