Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Why is my dog yelping when touched and panting heavily?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed

My dog was acting funny earlier last week she would yip if you bumped her or when she would jump off the couch well then she acted fine so we thought it was a pulled muscle now she also is yipping again my dad ran his hand down her side to her back legs when he got back to her legs she yipped and if she is just sitting here she will pant heavily

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on October 30th, 2016

Poor Baby! It definitely sounds like she's painful somewhere. In my experience, the most common cause of yelping or yipping when touched or petted is back pain, often due to a herniated disc - this is a fairly common problem in dogs. She could also be painful due to some other injury to her legs or back. I would recommend having her examined by a vet as soon as you are able to - he/she can do a thorough exam to help localize the source of the pain, and may also do x-rays if needed to help diagnose the problem.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button