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My dog has back pain and spasms. Can I give her muscle relaxers?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 6 years and 11 months old | 55 lbs

My dog was running in deep snow today and I think she hurt her back muscles as now (8 hrs later) she is having spasms. I did an assessment and found a sore spot mid back that I put a heat pack on and started massaging her as close to the area as she will let me. Her spasming has calmed a lot but when it starts then it continues a few minutes. Is there any muscle relaxers I can give her (55 lbs) or any other suggestions you can give me

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 31st, 2018

Unfortunately there are no OTC muscle relaxers you can give Peanut. I recommend resting her for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take her out to toilet on a leash, and bring her right back in when she's done. If she still appears painful after this time, then I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. She may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. You can keep applying the heat, but back off on the massage as that may be painful to her. Best of luck.

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