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My senior dog is shaking, limping, and grunting. Is she in pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed

My dog started shaking and trembling today as she was laying and sitting down. She is having a hard time laying down and getting up and keeps snorting or grunting a couple times very loudly every 3 minutes or so. Sounds like a reverse sneeze that stops and goes. It’s hard for her to walk easily as well and has a small limp. She is 14 so I don’t know if old she is catching up or she is in bad pain... please help my sweetie. :(

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

Veterinarian

Published on December 29th, 2017

It is difficult to say for sure, but by your description, it sounds like Nala may be in pain. I recommend having her checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible either at an emergency clinic or by finding a veterinarian on call. Good luck.

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    Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 29th, 2017

    It's hard to know for sure online, but that sounds more like pain to me that imminent death. I would recommend taking her to a veterinary emergency clinic right away for evaluation. Even if she is dying, she may need pain medications and support to pass peacefully, or you may need to help her along so she doesn't suffer. This could also be something totally non-life threatening like neck pain. Best of luck to you and Nala.

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