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My dog's spine feels prominent. Is this normal or should I see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 72 lbs

Hi so can you please tell me if it is normal if I can feel my dogs spine sticking up more after the halfway point like at the beginning of the lumbar part of his back. It feels like lit sticks up more for about 5 inches. Could this be from me throwing him a ball in an alley way and him braking hard? Is this normal for a spine to be felt more in the lumbar part in a gsd? It's like I feel 4-5 of his vertebrae sticking up more. Please tell me if this is normal? Should I go see my vet about this?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Veterinarian

Published on April 4th, 2017

I can't really tell you anything specific about your dog's spine without seeing radiographs. However, there is a huge amount of normal variation in anatomy with all animals, including us. Do not panic. If your dog is having any kind of orthopedic problem, he will likely express pain or discomfort when you press gently on these vertebrae or on both sides of his back along the large epaxial muscles that follow along the dorsal midline. If this all seems ok, and if he is not limping, and is able to run, walk, sit up, jump up, and play normally, he is likely just fine, and the way his spine feels is normal for him. If he drags any limb when he walks, or seems to walk like he is "drunk", or seems paralyzed in any way, then I would be concerned.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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