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My Boxer yelps when stretching or lying down. Is it back pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Female | unspayed | 55 lbs

My 5 year old boxer seems to be experiencing some pain in one of her front legs. She walks fine(isn't limping)- she was even just running and playing. But it seems like occasionally, when she extends her legs far out(to stretch, to jump on the bed, or give hugs), she yelps out for a moment. She also takes a while to lay down, almost like shes anticipating pain. I've moved her legs around and felt them up and down and that doesn't seem to bother her. What should I do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 6th, 2020

Hello. This sounds more like back or neck pain. If her leg was the issue, she would limp. Have your veterinarian examine her and check range of motion in her neck and palpate along her spine for pain. If found, she can be treated with rest and anti inflammatory medication. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach

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