My dog is on her back with stiff legs and whining. Is she hurt?

Your dog needs veterinary care immediately. He could have a problem with the vertebrae in his back, a fracture or tendon injury to a leg, or severe abdominal pain. A full exam by a vet will help to zero in on the site of the problem, and then appropriate treatment can be given.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Moo. I recommend that she sees an emergency veterinarian today. It doesn't sound like she is feeling well. Small breed dogs can be prone to neck and/or back pain which can be excruciating to them. These dogs will commonly cry when picked up. The veterinarian will examine her and try to determine the source of her pain. She may also need bloodwork and possibly x-rays. From there, treatment can be started. In the meantime, do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Pain on extension of the hind legs can be indicative of hip pain, knee pain, spinal pain, or even a soft tissue injury in that area. I would recommend having Coco evaluated by a veterinarian so he/she can perform a complete physical, orthopedic and neurologic exam to better localize his pain. Based on what is found, he/she may then be able to prescribe an anti-inflammatory pain medication to help Coco feel better. I hope this is helpful!

It sounds like Cupcake could be having back pain or another problem with her spine. Intervertebral disc disease is fairly common in small breed dogs and can lead to weakness in the rear legs, although it is usually not episodic. It’s also possible that she is having an atypical seizure or some other kind of pain that is causing her weakness. I’d recommend having your vet examine her - it might help to video how she is walking and take it with you.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m so sorry to hear Pippy is having issues. I would recommend she be evaluated by her regular veterinarian as soon as possible, as an inability to move her legs can be a sign of a serious underlying issue. There are a variety of causes for what you are seeing, such as an infection (Lyme disease), neurological or orthopedic issue, among others. As some of these may be time sensitive, I would recommend she be evaluated as soon as possible to see what may be going on, and any treatment she may need. Good luck!

Poor Belle! It sounds like she injured herself when she jumped off the couch, and she could have hurt her back, hips, or back legs. It is concerning she is not moving, and that tells me she is likely in a lot of pain. Because of that, I advise you to take her into a vet today. You do not want her to stay in pain, and unfortunately you cannot give her any human pain medications. Many are toxic to dogs, and can be fatal if given. Having her seen by a vet today is in her best interest. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Poe. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. She sounds painful based on your description. It is common for small breed dogs to experience back pain which can lead to lameness in the hind end. Joint pain can cause similar signs. Of course, an unknown traumatic event could have occurred as well. Her veterinarian will examine her and determine if pain medications or x-rays are needed. Keep her quiet in the meantime to allow her body to rest. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!