Why is my dog restless, pacing, and keeping his tail down?

Thank you for contacting Pet Coach with your question about Nyla. It could be she has an upset stomach or feels painful, leading to her restlessness. She may have to go to the bathroom badly. Try taking her outside to see if that helps. If it doesn't, keep an eye on her tonight, and if this behavior continues to the morning, have her seen by a vet. Best of luck, I hope this helps.

Poor guy. Stomach upset is a possible cause; however, with such vague symptoms of being uncomfortable and decreased appetite, there are other potential internal issues. I notice that he is intact also, so a prostate issue could also cause a sudden pain response and decreased appetite as well. If he does not seem to be improving on his own within the next 1-2 days, then it is best to get him fully examined by your veterinarian for any other sources of his pain (prostate, joints, etc). I hope that your furry friend feels better soon! Best wishes and take care.

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Bo. Three things in particular that I would be concerned about- back or abdominal pain and anal gland problems. A common back problem that we see frequently involves the intervertebral discs which are between the vertebrae. This can range from the disc bulging against the spinal cord or a rupture of the disc. Dogs often pace, move cautiously and slowly, seem painful, can't get comfortable for any amount of time, etc. Back problems can also be due to soft tissue problems such as a muscle strain, other inflammation, infection, etc. Abdominal pain can mimic this same presentation even with a lack of clinical signs. This could be due to intestinal cramping, pancreatitis, kidney pain, or problems with any of the organs in the abdomen. I'm mostly suspicious of a back problem. I would advise keeping a very close eye on Bo. If this condition persists, worsens, or other signs develop then I would have him evaluated immediately. If you notice that he is getting weaker, seems uncoordinated, starts walking on the top of his back paws, becomes paralyzed in the rear legs then get him seen immediately. These signs would mean that he is having some significant pressure on his spinal cord. Anal gland problems range from enlargement to inflammation to infection of the glands. Clinical signs are often vague like this. Your vet can gather a history, perform an examination, and then make a diagnostic/treatment plan based on their findings. Possible tests include fecal/blood/urine tests and x-rays to evaluate the spine and abdomen. Anal glands can be emptied if they are found to be enlarged and painful. Treatment would be targeted once a diagnosis is made. Good luck with Bo

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a general sign of discomfort. If this continues, I recommend you check in with your veterinarian for a physical examination to make sure that there is nothing really wrong with him. Hopefully it is just an isolated episode. Good luck and have a great day!

I recommend to have Muffin examined. Something is obviously happening internally that is making her uncomfortable. This could be many things including gas, pancreatitis or a back issue. After a physical exam, the vet will get a better idea of what may or may not be happening and then can figure out a game plan. I hope this helps.

Oh poor JoJo! The stretching can be a sign of stomach pain, as well as moving slowly and her tail tucked between her legs. I would monitor her for now, and if she is still acting this way in the morning, I would have her seen by a vet. If she develops other signs such as unproductive vomiting, bloated abdomen, looking at her abdomen, or restlessness (all signs of bloat), take JoJo into a vet immediately.

Poor Moose. It sounds like he may be in pain or anxious about something. I would have your vet take a look at him to ensure he isn't having any neck or back pain and to ensure that his abdomen also isn't painful. Your vet will be able to do an thorough exam to determine whether it is pain or anxiety and give him the proper meds to help him feel better. I do not recommend giving any human pain meds as most are toxic to dogs. I hope this helps!