This could be due to a spinal issue or hip arthritis impacting mobility and the nerves controlling legs and digestive tract movement of food or anal sphincter muscle control.
If your dog is not neutered he may have pain and intestinal blockage from an enlarged prostate.
Check under the tail for a poop mat too as he may not have fully expelled stool and if any is stuck across the anal area that could keep him from going.
You can read about disc disease here
http://uwveterinarycare.wisc.edu/sa_services/surg/neurology/ivdd.htm
http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&A=2373
There are meds that can help with athritis issues including nutritonal supports such as glucosamine chondroitin, Adequan shots, and pain and inflammation meds.
Your vet may want to do an x-ray after doing a physical exam.
They do make standing/walking aids which you can see here
http://handicappedpets.com/www/index.php/help-pets-walk.html
including slings and wheels etc.
Hope this helps you!
A neurological issue makes more sense since we have noticed an increased sensitivity to petting his back over the past year and his "tickle spots" seem to be in a larger area on his body.
We have been giving him adequan shots for a year in addition to nutraceuticals for arthritis for five years. We have also been giving him dermaxx for the past two years.
We know that he's aging, but we would like him to make it to his 12th birthday next April.
If its a nerve issue, what are the treatments available?
Sorry for the delay I was offline for a bit.
Treatments could include surgery, a change in meds, physical therapy, acupuncture, or supportive care such as the use of a lifting harness to help him stand and walk.
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30+ yrs dog home vet care & nursing, rescue, behavior&training, responsible show breeding, genetics