Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog is hunched, crying, and in pain after eating. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 10 lbs

My dog was fine until she ate last night. Then at around 1:30 in the morning, she woke me up with a sharp cry and wanted out. She peed, came back in then cried again. This time she pooped like 3 times and came back in. It is 8:18 am and she still cries when she lays down or turns around. She does not want me picking her up and is in a hunched position

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Ana M, DVM

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 29th, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Callie. Did she have diarrhea when she defecated today? If so, she could be experiencing abdominal pain. If not, then I worry that she has neck and/or back pain as this is common in small breed dogs. This can be excruciating and cause the dog to cry out. Most are hesitant to jump or do stairs. They will stand or walk with a hunched posture. I recommend that she sees a veterinarian today. She will be examined and the source of her problem located. Based on these results, the veterinarian may recommend testing such as blood work and x-rays. This information will guide treatment. In the meantime, keep her quiet and do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button