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Why does my dog shake, arch his back, and not respond to me?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 6 years and 3 months old | 60 lbs

My dogs front and back legs will shake like he's almost humping something but it's weird cuz he's using his front legs too and when he does it his back arches up what is wrong and he won't respond while he's doing it

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on March 6th, 2019

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

This is hard one... it is difficult to say exactly what is happening to Ace here without doing an exam first. This behavior you mentioned could be many things- it could be spinal pain, focal seizures, or another neurological condition. I would highly recommend Ace see his veterinarian for an exam soon. You may also want to capture a video of these episodes on your phone to show to your veterinarian as this may help aide in a diagnosis.

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