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Why is my energetic dog shaking with leg pain & muscle spasms?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 7 months old | 21 lbs

My dog seems to have hurt his hind leg. He has muscle spasms and lots of shaking. He's usually very energetic.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 11th, 2017

Poor Marley! It sounds like he has really hurt his leg if he's having muscle spasms and lots of shaking. He could have torn a ligament, strained a muscle, or possibly broken a bone. I would rest him tonight, keep him as quiet as possible. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a lead only and bring him right back in when he's done. In the morning, if he's still having muscle spasms and lots of shaking, I would take him into the vet for a lameness exam and possibly x-rays. The vet can diagnose what is causing his symptoms, and can treat him for it. He may also benefit from pain meds from the vet. Please do not give Marley any human pain meds, as many are toxic to dogs and are fatal if given.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on May 1st, 2018
Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. If Marley appears to be improving then I would continue to monitor him. If the symptoms do not resolve completely or they worsen then I would have Marley examined by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate Diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. It is possible that Marley ingested something that is causing these symptoms. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I'll be more than happy to help you further
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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