My 4-year-old dog screams when her back leg is pulled. What's wrong?

Hello. Tis could be anything from simple muscle overuse, to a tendon sprain to an actual ligament tear. Ligament tears are unfortunately quite common, especially the anterior cruciate ligament ( ACL ). This may also be the first indication that Nalah has hip dysplasia. So, if she still seems very uncomfortable tomorrow, you might want to schedule a visit with your veterinarian who will be able to localize the pain, possibly with x-rays, but certainly recommend medications or supplements to make her much more comfortable. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Poor Peanut! Pain like this can be caused by a fracture, bone or joint infection, or nerve damage. I recommend having Peanut seen by a vet as soon as possible - they may recommend x-rays to determine the cause of the pain. In the meantime, you should keep Peanut as calm as possible to prevent further trauma. I hope all is well with Peanut!

Poor Scobie! It is difficult to say exactly what can be wrong with her leg from the photo. Pain can be caused by fractures, nerve damage, or joint issues. I can see from the photo that Scobie’s belly is very big and she is pretty thin. She should be seen by a vet right away to determine what is going on and begin the appropriate treatment.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Lazy! She does sound very painful! She likely has hurt her back, hips or tail. The fact she cries out when you touch her there and when trying to get up indicates back end pain. Some dogs with anal gland issues or Lyme disease can show similar symptoms. I would have her seen today by your Vet before the weekend. They will very likely on physical exam be able to tell where she hurts. They can then prescribe the correct and safest medications for her condition. I hope this helps and I wish Lazy a speedy recovery!

She could have some arthritis in her hips, a loose knee cap, or a strain/sprain. You could have your vet examine her to determine the cause. Your vet can take an X-ray, if needed, to help diagnose and the determine the best way to treat. She may need an anti-inflammatory to treat.

This could be due to joint pain or lower back discomfort. An exam with your veterinarian would be required to diagnose the exact cause. X-rays of the hind limbs, hips and lower spine may be recommended after the physical exam. Afterwards, your vet may dispense medication for pain relief. Do not medicate Bullet without speaking with your vet first. Many OTC medications can be toxic to dogs. In the meantime, restrict activity to just leash walks for elimination and avoid excessive running, jumping or rough play.

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Intermittent, painful lameness in dogs of her breed is often related to slipping patella, hip problems (for the hind leg) and sometimes elbow dysplasia (for the front leg lameness). A visit at your local vets is recommended. Full clinical examination should allow making the diagnosis and starting treatment, if required.