Do Dogs Get Restless Leg Syndrome? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Some dogs can’t seem to sit still. They kick their legs while resting, shift around constantly, or pace at night. These signs may look like Restless Leg Syndrome in humans, and while dogs don’t get RLS exactly the same way, there are real reasons behind this kind of behavior that are worth understanding.

What is Restless Leg Syndrome?

Restless Leg Syndrome, often called RLS, is a condition that makes people feel strange sensations in their legs, especially when they’re lying down or trying to sleep. It usually causes an urge to move the legs to make the feeling go away. In people, it’s considered a neurological issue, which means it involves the brain and nerves.

Can Dogs Get Restless Leg Syndrome?

The answer isn’t simple. Dogs can’t tell us how they feel, so it’s hard to say if they feel the same things humans do. But some dogs do show behaviors that look a lot like what people with RLS experience. That’s what we’re going to explain here.

Signs of Leg Restlessness in Dogs

Some dogs show clear signs of discomfort when they’re resting. These aren’t just normal twitches or sleepy leg jerks. They seem more intense and more frequent.

1. Unusual Movement During Rest

A dog may constantly shift positions while lying down. They may move one leg over and over again or kick their hind legs during sleep. It’s not the same as dreaming. It happens often and seems to make it hard for the dog to settle.

2. Pacing or Getting Up Often

Many owners notice their dog won’t lie still at night. The dog gets up, moves around, lies down again, and repeats this cycle. It may look like they’re trying to get comfortable but just can’t seem to find the right spot.

3. Whining or Barking

Some dogs make sounds while they move their legs or change position. They may whine softly or bark a little. This can be a clue that something is bothering them physically.

4. Back-Leg Muscle Twitching

In some cases, the back legs seem to spasm or jerk suddenly. This could happen during rest or even while the dog is standing. If these movements keep happening, it may mean something more serious is going on.

What Are Common Causes of Restless Movements in Dogs?

There isn’t one clear reason why dogs develop these kinds of restless movements. But there are several common problems that can lead to them.

Pain in the Hips or Spine

Arthritis, hip dysplasia, or spinal problems can make lying down painful. Dogs with these issues often change positions a lot because they’re trying to get away from the discomfort.

Nerve Problems

Conditions that affect the nerves can make the legs feel strange or trigger involuntary movement. One example is a condition in Dobermans where the back legs start to move oddly over time. It doesn’t hurt the dog, but the movements become hard to control.

Muscle Fatigue or Weakness

Some dogs have muscle issues that cause trembling or spasms after light activity. This might happen more often in older dogs or those with muscle loss in the back legs.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Lack of certain minerals, like iron or magnesium, may cause muscle twitching or restless behavior in both humans and animals. In some dogs, bloodwork shows that these imbalances are connected to their symptoms.

Side Effects from Medication

Some medications can affect the nervous system. If your dog recently started a new medication and you’ve noticed strange leg movements, it’s a good idea to ask your vet if the two could be related.

How Vets Find Out What’s Going On

Since dogs can’t describe what they feel, diagnosis starts by watching their behavior and asking the right questions.

What the Vet Will Ask

Your vet will likely ask how often your dog moves their legs during rest, if the dog seems to sleep well, or if they’ve had changes in energy, appetite, or walking habits. You should be ready to describe the symptoms clearly.

Physical Exam and Testing

Your vet may check your dog’s spine, joints, muscles, and nerves. Blood tests might be done to check for inflammation, infections, or imbalances. If needed, imaging like X-rays or MRI can be used to look at bones and nerves.

There’s no official test for RLS in dogs, but vets can figure out if the symptoms match this pattern once other causes are ruled out.

Treatment Options for Dogs With Restless Legs

The way to help your dog depends on what’s causing the issue. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are many ways to improve your dog’s comfort.

1. Fixing the Underlying Problem

If the root cause is arthritis, spinal issues, or a nerve problem, treating that condition is key. Anti-inflammatory medications, pain relief, and physical therapy can all make a big difference.

For dogs with mineral imbalances or iron deficiency, supplements or diet changes may help. Your vet will decide what’s best based on your dog’s lab results.

2. Calming the Nervous System

Some dogs with nerve-related twitching respond to medications that calm the nervous system. These medicines help calm overactive nerve signals and reduce discomfort or unwanted movement.

3. Adjusting Their Sleep Setup

Providing a soft, supportive bed that takes pressure off the joints can help dogs rest better. Orthopedic beds are a good choice, especially for older dogs or those with hip or spinal issues.

4. Gentle Exercise and Stretching

Light movement during the day helps prevent muscle stiffness. A short walk or some easy stretching can support circulation and reduce nighttime restlessness.

5. Using a Dog Wheelchair for Support

In dogs who have trouble walking or standing due to nerve or spinal conditions, a custom wheelchair can help them stay active and reduce muscle loss. K9 Carts manufactures dog wheelchairs made to fit your dog’s size and needs. These help relieve pressure on the legs and spine, giving dogs freedom of movement without discomfort.

Many owners find that their dogs are calmer at night once they get more controlled movement during the day. Staying active in a safe, supported way improves both mobility and mood.

When to Talk to Your Vet

You should contact your vet if your dog:

• Twitches or moves legs constantly at night
  

• Can’t seem to lie still
  

• Paces for no clear reason
  

• Cries or whines when lying down
  

• Shows new or unusual movements in the back legs
  

• Seems tired from poor sleep

The sooner you get a proper diagnosis, the sooner your dog can feel better. In many cases, simple changes make a big difference.

Closing Thoughts on Restless Leg Syndrome in Dogs

While dogs can’t tell us if they feel the same as humans with RLS, their behaviors can show when something isn’t right. The signs, such as twitching legs, pacing, or whining, shouldn’t be ignored. They could point to pain, nerve issues, or even a condition that looks a lot like restless leg syndrome.

By working with your vet, making small changes at home, and using tools like custom wheelchairs when needed, your dog can rest better, stay active, and feel more comfortable again. Keeping an eye on what your dog is trying to tell you can help them live a happier, healthier life.