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My dog can't jump, winces, and has quivery legs. Is it back pain?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog can't jump up on my bed without help all of a sudden. If she does, she winces. She is not limping or have any other symptoms except her back legs get quivery & she catch scratch behind her ear with either leg.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 7th, 2017

It sounds like your dog has a problem with her back as that is a common sign of back pain. Dogs are usually reluctant to jump because it causes pain. Your vet can check her for back pain and then prescribe medications to help. She may need an anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxer, and/or pain medications to help. Also, it would be a good idea to restrict her activity for a few weeks, no running, jumping, etc. Hope she feels better soon!

36Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on November 10th, 2016
It sounds like your dog is either suffering from a spine injury/condition or from a case of severe hip arthritis, you should take her to the vet as soon as possible as she will need some medical treatment if you want to give her a chance to get better.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA
Veterinarian
Published on June 5th, 2018
There are many possible reasons a dog could lose strength in the hind legs, severe injury, fractures and spinal or hip disease would be major concerns. She needs an urgent vet appointment, full physical exam and likely xrays to determine the underlying causes and most appropriate treatment
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 1st, 2018
I presume she may have arthritis of her spine or hips causing her pain. You can try giving her joint supplements such as Dasuquin or Cosequin, found at your local pet store or through online vendors. However, if her mobility is still pretty debilitated after about 12 hrs or so, or seems to be getting worse, it is best to take her to your local vet for stronger pain medication (i.e. Rimadyl +/- Tramadol) to help her with her mobility. Bloodwork and radiographs of her back legs, hips and spine may also be recommended to ensure we have the right diagnosis and that there is nothing else going on there. Poor girl. This is very common in older large breed dogs, so hopefully the medication will help her with her pain.
Best of luck to you and take care of Lucy.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My dog is slow, wincing, and won't jump or play. What's wrong?

It seems she is hiring somewhere. At her age arthritis can be starting but I would suspect a back injury or a soft tissue strain or sprain. The best thing is actually cage rest. No running or jumping, no playing even if she feels better after a few days. She needs rest for at least 2 weeks. I would advise getting her seen by your vet as they have medicine to help make her more comfortable and can localize he spot that is hurting to help you prevent it again in the future

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To me this sounds like Echo is likely in some degree of pain. A change in activity is often a sign of pain. Most dogs don't actively whine or complain when they are uncomfortable or painful. If back or neck pain is present a dog won't always limp. This article discusses other signs of pain: https://www.petcoach.co/article/top-5-signs-your-pet-is-in-pain/ I'd recommend taking Echo to see a veterinarian to be examined. Please remember there are no safe over the counter pain medications for dogs so you will need to have medication prescribed by a veterinarian. Until you can get to your veterinarian I'd suggest making sure Echo stays rested - don't allow running, jumping, or stair use. Thanks for using PetCoach and I hope Echo's issue resolves quickly!

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My dog is limping after jumping off the bed. When to see a vet?

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Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My dog whimpers, won't jump, and acts like he's in pain. What's wrong?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I am sorry to hear about Jagger. This could be a few different things but I am particularly concerned about a back injury. (Other soft tissue and arthritis conditions are possible too.) Though it's probably not a true emergency, I would get him in to the vet as soon as possible for an evaluation and for some safe pain medication. I do NOT recommend any over the counter pain medications as they are neither safe, nor very effective in dogs. (Plus, some will interfere with the medication your vet will want to prescribe.). For now, keep Jagger kenneled or closely supervised and no running, jumping, wrestling, or stairs until you get him evaluated. If any more concerning signs arise (loss of appetite, tremors, seizures, dragging a back leg/legs, etc), head to the emergency vet immediately. Best wishes to you and Jagger.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

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