Why did my dog yelp when I nudged him? Is he in pain or startled?

Bear was probably just startled by your touch. If he is otherwise acting normal I would not be too concerned. If you notice any limping or lethargy you should probably take him to your vet to make sure nothingntoo serious is going on.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Blue! Common causes of pain when small dogs are picked up are: neck and back pain for forelimb pain. If this is new and he is also jumping up less, shivering or tremoring and not using the stairs I would take him in to the Vet this week for an exam as that indicates pain. Other reasons for crying when picked up is arthritis or being scared or surprised. So try to go slowly and gently if he is otherwise acting normal. Good luck!

If only Milo could talk! This type of behavior could be related to something like anxiety or to pain/discomfort. I recommend to have him examined by the veterinarian who will check for evidence of pain on the physical exam. Many times this type of sudden pain is related to intervertebral disc disease, discospondylitis, upper abdominal pain or a pinched nerve. They may also check a urine sample or the anal glands as well. Since he can't talk, it's best to play it safe. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

It could be that Noble felt some pain, such as from his spine, neck, hips, or leg joints that caused him to yelp, and then it passed. Given that he seems fine now, I wouldn't be too concerned about it, but I would monitor him. Should he do that again, I would have him seen by a vet in the morning for a health check.

I would be worried that Lui has an injury (Not necessarily from anyone petting or harming him) or something such as ear or tooth pain that is radiating out and causing the yelping when he is pet. It is a good idea to bring him to a vet ASAP so they can check in his ears, mouth, and neck to rule out any issues such as an infected tooth or ear that could be causing the problem. In the meantime, being careful with handling him may help reduce pain until he can be seen. If health issues are ruled out, it's also possible that Lui is a bit fearful of people, and so is yelping if he doesn't feel comfortable with being handled. Speaking with a local trainer about how to help with fear and socialization may be a good idea.

Sometimes animals do dream so that could potentially be the cause. Also he could have very easily hurt himself but not seriously, for example if he got a dew claw caught on the bedding. If he seems back to normal I would simply monitor him, and you can always take him to a vet for an examination if you are concerned.

Hi, it can certainly be a pulled muscle and that the pain is elicited when you put pressure on that specific area. If he has eaten and passed normal feaces fine, I would recommend to let him a have a quiet week-end and monitor how symptoms until Monday. If he still seems to be yelping, even if left often, have him checked over. Obviously, if you are worried in the meantime have him checked over sooner. However, with pulled muscles, normally rest does the trick.