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Why is my dog yelping, hiding, and in pain when I touch him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pomeranian | Male | 8 lbs

Hi, I’m very worried for my dog bobo. This morning he randomly started to yelp and scream and we didn’t know what was wrong. He went under the couch to his safe place and we assumed our cats had scratched him in the nose or something, he is under my bed and whenever I tried getting him out to see what was wrong he wouldn’t budge and he seemed kind of cold in temp. Anyways, I went to go touch his lower leg area and his neck and paw area and he yelped, please help me! I’m so worried for my baby.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 27th, 2018

Hello. It sounds like BoBo is dealing with some significant neuromuscular disease, such as from a pinched nerve, herniated disc, or a combination of both. You should truly try to gently remove him from under the bed, even if that means moving the bed, & have your vet check him out ASAP. He probably needs anti-inflammatory medications, pain medication & possibly even a muscle relaxer. These dogs need absolute rest for several weeks to prevent the necessity of possible surgery, or even paralysis. Please try to get him to your vet as soon a s possible. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 20th, 2019

    Yelping is a sign of pain in dogs, and whenever it appears a dog is in pain, it should be checked out. It may be the spot where you touch or lift him up is sensitive, and when there is no pressure on it, it's not painful so he doesn't yelp. You can keep an eye on him for now, but if this yelping continues or increases in frequency, then I would have him seen by a vet. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Rosemary Barber, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 15th, 2017

    Good morning! I'm sorry to hear about this. Sounds very stressful and upsetting. It is possible that he is having back or neck pain. He really needs to see a vet today to be examined! Your vet can help, by finding the source of the pain, and prescribing medications to give him some pain relief! I really hope he feels better soon!

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