Why did my dog whimper when I pulled his scruff? Did I hurt him?

Question

Hi there, I have a jack Russel terrier (He's nearly 3 years old). He's a calm, sociable and friendly dog. Today he was trying to get someone else's food. I wanted him to get away so I gently got the scruff of his neck and pulled it slightly, just to see how he would react, as I pulled slightly, he whimpered, I immediently let go. He was fine after that and acting normal. Did I do anything wrong, did I hurt my dog? Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 2 years and 10 months old

Maria DVM · Accepted Answer

Magnum is absolutely adorable! As puppies their moms will carry and lift them by the back of their necks and it doesn't hurt them. As an adult dog I typically do not recommend pulling them by their scruff (cats are different). He may have whimpered because he was scared or it may have hurt a little. Do not worry about it Magnum will be perfectly fine and you did nothing wrong. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Why did my dog whimper when I pulled his scruff? Did I hurt him?

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