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Why is my dog whining in pain and can't lower her neck to eat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 7 years and 3 months old | 70 lbs

My dog is whining very loud like she is in pain. She has never whined before. She can’t lower her neck to eat either. Her whining comes and goes.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 9th, 2019

If Ella can't lower her neck to eat, I suspect it's her neck that's in pain. I would elevate her bowl to make it easier for her to eat, and then have her seen by a vet in the morning. She may 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. I hope this helps.

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