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My dog whimpers, won't jump, and acts like he's in pain. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bichon Frise | Male | neutered | 7 years and 5 months old | 14 lbs

Last night my dog began whimpering when I picked him up under his front two legs. he then was hesitant to jump up on anything. I crated him when I was at work today and when I got home he attempted to stretch and he whimpered again. He also has decreased energy and very sleepy today. He normally gets excited and jumps up on the couch but he was not that way today. Not sure what is going on. Do you have any suggestions or ideas of what could be going on?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 6th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I am sorry to hear about Jagger. This could be a few different things but I am particularly concerned about a back injury. (Other soft tissue and arthritis conditions are possible too.) Though it's probably not a true emergency, I would get him in to the vet as soon as possible for an evaluation and for some safe pain medication. I do NOT recommend any over the counter pain medications as they are neither safe, nor very effective in dogs. (Plus, some will interfere with the medication your vet will want to prescribe.). For now, keep Jagger kenneled or closely supervised and no running, jumping, wrestling, or stairs until you get him evaluated. If any more concerning signs arise (loss of appetite, tremors, seizures, dragging a back leg/legs, etc), head to the emergency vet immediately. Best wishes to you and Jagger.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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