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My dog is walking with his head down. Is he in pain or injured?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why is my dog walking with his head down?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ross Massimiano, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 26th, 2015

It's very likely that this is a painful condition, as evidenced by the fact that he doesn't want to hold his head up. It could be due to a sprained muscle, a pinched nerve, or something more serious involving the vertebrae in the neck.
Most of the time these situations do not resolve on their own, and I find that my patients need pain medications and potentially muscle relaxers, as well as strict cage rest for at least 2 weeks. In addition, you'll want your vet to do a thorough exam to rule out Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) that can occur if there is pressure being put on the spinal cord by a disk.
Until you can get an appointment with your vet today or tomorrow, I would get a harness instead of a collar so as not to put any additional pressure on the area.

128Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on August 16th, 2017
This neck pain can be from a bulging intervertebral disc in his neck. It is important that you let him rest, use a harness not a collar when walking him and I recommend seeing your veterinarian for muscle relaxers and pain medication. These episodes can last a few days or months. If the disc ruptures he could get worse pain and even paralysis. Generally with rest and medication he will fully recover in a few weeks. This often doesn't show on X-rays. To see where the problem is he would need an MRI which is not indicated unless he is paralyzed and needs surgery. Using a hot compress or heating pad to warm the muscles and doing gentle massage will reduce the muscle spasms. Also I treat this condition with laser and acupuncture with excellent results. Please have them recheck him if he is worse and get pain medication so he can be comfortable. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Rocky.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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