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Why does my dog whine in pain after swimming, especially when moving?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 3 years and 5 months old | 110 lbs

My dog is whining in pain, not all the time just some times, when he gets up from laying down on the ground or when he jumps up on the bed or gets down from the couch. He ran just fine. I tried to get him to stand on his back legs but he laid down. This startedthe day after I took him swiming in a lake near my house. What could be some reasons this is happening?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amy Poole, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 23rd, 2017

Oh no! Brut does sound quite uncomfortable and in pain! He could have developed a soft tissue injury while swimming and needs anti-inflammatories/pain medication. It could be related to neck, back, or even tail pain if you are not seeing him limp on one particular leg. Neck and back pain is incredibly painful and often requires aggressive pain treatment. I would recommend you take him in to your vet for an exam to try to pin point the source of pain. He likely needs medication to help alleviate his pain and inflammation and get him back to his normal self. I do not recommend over the counter human medication as most can be quite toxic to dogs. Good luck with Brut! I hope he feels better and is swimming again soon!

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