My dog has a limp tail, is in pain, won't move or poop. What's wrong?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Bear. He could have sustained an injury to his tail and it may be painful. If he has had recent trouble defecating, this can also cause the dog to hold his tail differently. Finally, he may have a problem with his anal glands that is causing him pain. If this posture persists, he should see his veterinarian. In the meantime, do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be painful to dogs. I hope this information helps!

This could indicate a fracture of her tail or dislocation as the tail has joints just like the rest of the body. It could also indicate an anal gland issue or even a problem with the lumbosacral joint. Do not give your dog in a human medication as it could be toxic to dogs. I recommend having your dog seen by her veterinarian or an emergency veterinarian as she may need x-rays to diagnose the problem as well as dog safe medication for pain. keep her quiet and restrict her activity until she can be seen by veterinarian and do not try to manipulate the site at all.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Jess! The most common cause for a limp or down tail and decreased activity is back pain. Back pain can be from a slipped disk or a muscle strain or sprain. They tend to hurt and thus do not want to play or jump up or do stairs. Pain also affects the appetite. I highly recommend a Vet visit today as it is Friday. The vet should be able to elicit back pain on exam. I treat with anti-inflammatories, pain medications, muscle relaxants and strict rest. I wish Jess the best!

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Dan. He could be holding his tail down because he has pain in his lower back or hips. Holding his head down slightly can also be a sign of spinal pain. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. I hope this helps!

It sounds as if Maggie is either constipated, or is having trouble with her anal glands. These glands are just inside the rectum and may need to be emptied out, at your vet clinic. The other possibility is that she has a painful back or pelvis, which could be making it difficult for her to position herself to pass stool. Sounds like she could use a trip to see her vet, as soon as possible! Best of luck with Maggie!

Your dog could have hip or back problems that make it painful to posture to defecate and would also make it hurt when her tail is manipulated. It could also be infected or inflamed anal glands. This condition is very painful and makes it difficult to defecate or even move. Without treatment, the gland may rupture, causing a open wound on your pet's rear that will require wound care and antibiotics as well as some pain relief. I recommend getting your pet seen by your vet. They will examine your pet, possibly do some x-rays and labwork and be able to give you a better idea of what is going on and how best to treat it.

Poor baby. It sounds like he may have injured something. It is common for them to injure their back or neck and act this way. I would have your vet look st him today. Your vet will be able to localize the pain and give him the appropriate pain meds to help him feel better. If it is his lower back, you vet may also prescribe him a stool softener so it is easier for him to have a bowel movement. Your vet will also be able to do X-rays if needed. I do not recommend to give any human pain meds as most of these are toxic to dogs. I hope this helps and he starts to feel better soon!