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!
    Already a member? Sign in
    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 lazy, twitching, and worried when I pet his ribs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 9 days old | 55 lbs

Dog has been acting funny being lazy and just seems worried when i pet him by his ribs his back twitches and he looks back at me should i be worried

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 4th, 2017

It's sounds like Bane may be painful when you are petting him. If he is suffering from some sort of discomfort it would explain his lethargy as well. If this behavior continues for more that a couple of days I would recommend you take Bame in to be checked by your veterinarian.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Amber W

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    If Bane has been acting more lethargic this can be a sign of illness (especially in a puppy at his age). Twitching when petting along his ribs could be a sign of itchiness or even a sign of pain. Itchiness might be caused by fleas or other issues like sarcoptes mange or allergies. It would take an examination with a veterinarian to determine if itchiness or pain is causing the twitching. Because Bane is young and has been acting a lethargic it would be a good idea to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian to see what the cause is. Please schedule sooner rather than later if Bane stops eating or drinking or if he has any vomiting, diarrhea or difficulty walking.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored