Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Why is my dog hiding her face and yelping when I touch her mouth?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog is hiding her face on the right side of her mouth. When I touch it she pulls away from me and makes a loud shriek sound.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 16th, 2017

I am sorry to hear about your dog. I would definitely recommend a visit to your veterinarian. I would be concerned about a problem with a tooth such as infection or fracture, or a problem with an ear being painful, or possibly a problem with the jaw or the temporal mandibular junction (joint of the jaw). The vet should be able to look her over and hopefully localize where the problem is coming from. They may recommend an x-ray if they are afraid of a break, or an ear swab if it looks like the ear is involved. Another possibility could be neck pain which the vet can check for as well.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored