Why does my chihuahua's neck hurt on and off, even with meds?

I would be very concerned about this level of pain and would recommend an exam by a veterinarian. It could be neurological, a disc problem, a strain in the bones or muscles of the neck or possibly an infection somewhere in that area. The vet may recommend x-rays to get a diagnosis. Please do not give any human pain medication as these can cause serious side effects in animals. It is best to get pain medication that has been prescribed by your veterinarian that is safe for dogs. I hope this helps and that Miky feels better soon!

An immediate check up is required as these signs seems to be compatible with a neurological problem. Intervertebral disc extrusion/protrusion in the cervical area can cause commonly nerve/spinal cord and meninges (around spinal cord) compression. The compression may be dynamic, showing up signs when moving the neck in certain postures. X rays and more specific and advanced imaging procedures may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

This episodes could be due to spinal pain that can give intermittent signs when a nerve is ''impinged''. Typically dynamic intervertebral disc extrusion can cause this presentation. If it was just a soft tissue injury (strained muscle) usually with rest and some anti-inflammatories the signs can recede in about a week time. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

Poor Little Man. I recommend to have an x-ray to look for evidence of disease in his spine. This sudden pain could come from many things including intervertebral disc disease, discospondylitis, an anal gland infection or a pinched nerve. The x-ray could show evidence of the first two diseases. Discuss start medications like steroids and muscle relaxants with your vet as well. Have the anal glands checked as well. An omega 3 fatty acid supplement for dogs may also help but will not control the symptoms alone. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Poor puppy!! It sounds like your dog is on all the correct medications. I would try to find a canine acupuncturist as it can help greatly in cases of wind up pain such as you are describing. Intractable pain is also a reason for surgical decompression of the spinal cord as well. Otherwise keep doing what you are doing. If your dog will allow you to hot pack his neck that can be helpful as well.

I recommend getting her checked by your vet right away. She could have a disc problem in her neck or upper back that is painful. Your vet will do an exam, labwork, and x-rays, and based on these results will be better able to tell you what is wrong with her and what the best treatment will be.

Bailey most likely has a bulging intervertebral disc in her cervical spine. Theses don't show on plain X-rays. The muscle spasms contribute to the painful episodes. Usually these dogs are not lame though occasionally they may hold up a front paw from pain radiating down the leg. I recommend pain medication with a muscle relaxer in addition you can use moist heat on her neck and shoulder, then some gentle massage to reduce the muscle spasms. I treat these dogs with laser and acupuncture to relive the symptoms. Bailey needs to rest, no jumping and use a harness to walk her not a neck collar. Generally as the disc heals over several weeks to a month the painful episodes go away. Your chiropractic veterinarian should be able to help with her pain. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Bailey.