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Why is my dog panting, shaking, yelping, and arching his back in pain?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Beagle | Male | unneutered | 7 years and 7 months old | 28 lbs

My beagle is constantly panting, shaking, and yelping. He's obviously in pain. When he is standing up, his back is arched and he wont lift his head up. He usually helps when he tries to move quickly or stands up. What should I do and what is wrong with him?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 3rd, 2018

Poor Zeke! I'm so sorry he's having a hard time. It sounds like he has some back and/or neck pain. The biggest concern I would have as to what may be causing his pain would be intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), where the shock absorbing discs between the back bones bulges and causes compression on the spinal cord. This causes great pain and if the problem progresses, can potentially lead to paralysis. It could also be a muscle injury, an infection along his spine (diskospondylitis) , or even a tumor causing pain.
Please avoid giving him pain mediation at home, as this will limit the safe options your vet has for pain when you take him to the vet. Additionally, if your vet finds that steroids are indicated, it could set up a problem if he's received aspirin or any other OTC pain med or anti-inflammatory at home. Keep him in a confined space, and take him to your vet tomorrow, or better yet seek emergency care tonight if its available; so that he can start getting some pain relief.

Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 2nd, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Rocky!

    I agree. Everything you are describing Rocky doing indicates pain. I worry about belly pr back pain. Since he is in pain it is best to have him examined by your Vet. If it is back pain then non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants and pain medications will be prescribed along with strict rest. If it is belly pain I worry about a mass in his liver or spleen (due to his breed and age), pancreatitis, a foreign body, or gas pain.

    I hope this helps and I wish Rocky the very best!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on March 26th, 2018

    I am sorry to hear that Yo-yo isn’t feeling well. A hunched back can indicate abdominal pain from a variety of reasons as well as back pain. If he isn’t eating, if he is vomiting,
    If he is straining to urinate or defecate, or if he can not get comfortable then he should be seen immediately. Otherwise I would highly encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian tomorrow. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Why is my dog shaking, panting excessively, and whining in pain?
It sounds like she should be examined by a vet to determine the source of her pain. She could have neck or back pain, arthritis, abdominal pain, etc. and your vet should be able to localize the pain and decide the best way to treat. She may need an anti-inflammatory and your vet can prescribe. Do not use any human OTC pain relievers as they can be toxic to dogs.
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Why is my dog screaming, running, and now shaking? Is he in pain?
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Why is my dog yelping, shivering, and in pain when moving or jumping?
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Why is my 9-year-old dog screaming in pain and hiding after injury?
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