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Why does my old dog yelp when touched, but seems fine later?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 50 lbs

My 15 year old female beagle-hound mix keeps yelping at the lightest touch on her neck and sometimes her hips, but when I check for sore spots afterwards or pet her she's fine. Any ideas on what could be wrong with her?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on April 12th, 2017

Poor Lily! If she yelps when she is touched in these areas, this is likely a sign that something is painful - even if she doesn't react when you examine her afterwards. She may have a pinched nerve, a herniated or "slipped" disc, or arthritis pain that could be causing her to do this. I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam when you are able to - he/she can do x-rays if needed to help determine the problem and can also prescribe pain medication for her to help make her more comfortable.

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