Dog Back Pain: Common Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Just like humans, dogs commonly experience back pain at one point or another during their lives. Sometimes dog back pain can be chronic due to an underlying health issue, while other times it’s just temporary discomfort caused by a muscle strain, for example. 

If your dog is showing signs of back pain, it’s important to bring them to the veterinarian for diagnosis and appropriate treatment options to relieve discomfort and improve quality of life. 

What Is Back Pain in Dogs?

Back pain in dogs refers to any type of discomfort a dog may experience associated with their back, which could be related to muscles, bones, or ligaments. 

The physical issue in the back, such as a muscle strain, causes the dog to perceive pain and react accordingly, such as by whining or moving stiffly. 

The dog will continue to react this way until the pain is no longer felt, either through healing of the injury or treatment. 

How Do I Know if My Dog Has Back Pain?

The most obvious sign of back pain in dogs is when they cry out when touched in the affected area or when moving around. A dog with a hurt back may also seem stiff, have difficulty walking, have a hunched posture, or show subtle changes in activity levels and behaviors. 

Common symptoms of back pain in dogs may include: 

• Howling or whining 
• Stiffness 
• Abnormal posture 
• Bunny hopping (when dogs hold both back legs together and hop when walking) 
• Back tenderness 
• Trembling 
• Increased panting 
• Decreased appetite 
• Lethargy 
• Arching back 
• Restlessness 
• Walking slowly 
• Behavior changes, such as irritability 
• Difficulty relieving themselves 

Because dogs may be reactive when in pain, it’s important to not touch or move any areas of their body. This can cause an accidental bite or may even worsen the condition. 

If you think your dog is in pain, bring them to a veterinarian, who can safely locate the source of pain, diagnose the health issue, and form a treatment plan for your pup.   

What Causes Back Pain in Dogs?

Many health issues can trigger back pain in dogs, from arthritis and obesity to injuries and  muscle strains. 

Common causes of dog back pain include: 

• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This disease is common in dogs with long backs, such as Dachshunds, though it can occur in any dog. IVDD refers to a breakdown of the cushioning discs between the bones of the spine, causing a herniated disc. 
• Osteoarthritis. As dogs age, the cartilage that normally cushions the joints breaks down. This results in abnormal joint movement and inflammation, which causes significant discomfort.  
• Trauma. Events that cause trauma to the spine or back can cause pain. These may include being hit by a car, falling from a great height, or fighting between dogs. 
• Muscle strain. Just like humans, dogs can move abnormally and develop strained muscles. Muscles tend to tighten, leading to tension and pain.  
• Infections. Many types of infections can lead to back pain due to inflammation. For example, diskospondylitis occurs due to a bacterial or fungal infection in the spine.   
• Cancer. If a tumor develops near the spine, it can create pressure in the affected area and subsequent pain. 
• Obesity. Too much weight on your dog’s bones can cause stress on the spine and surrounding muscles. This extra weight can put unnecessary strain on the back and lead to pain. 

Rarely, back pain may be referred from other areas, such as the pancreas. Certain kidney conditions may also cause back pain in dogs. 

Finding a Diagnosis for Dog Back Pain

Working with your veterinarian is the best way to determine whether back pain is present in your dog. 

To diagnose back pain, your vet will start with a thorough physical exam. Your dog’s posture will be noted, and their stance and gait will be watched for abnormalities. Your dog’s back will be gently pressed along the spine to see if they show any signs of discomfort, such as crying out or abruptly moving away. 

If your vet suspects your dog is experiencing back pain but is unsure of the cause, testing can be done, which may include: 

• Neurological exam. Your vet will check various reflexes to identify whether the spinal cord is affected. Weakness, delayed response, and absent reflexes are noted. 
• Imaging. X-rays, CT scans, or an MRI can be used to identify any abnormalities within the back that could be contributing to pain. For many spinal issues, MRI is the preferred imaging type for diagnosis. Sedation may be required for X-rays, and dogs are commonly anesthetized for CT or MRI. 
• Blood work. While this won’t diagnose back pain, it can provide insight as to whether your pup has signs of infection or inflammation that could necessitate a closer look. It can also provide information about your dog’s overall health before a treatment plan is developed. 

How Is Back Pain in Dogs Treated?

Treatment for back pain in dogs varies based on the underlying cause. Possible treatment options may include medication, surgery, physical therapy, and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture.  

Medications for Back Pain in Dogs 

Various drugs, including pain medications, can be used to manage back pain in dogs or treat the underlying issue. They include the following: 

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Galliprant (grapiprant). Galliprant is a chewable tablet, given daily, that can be used at the earliest signs of osteoarthritis in dogs to control pain and inflammation. 

• Muscle relaxants, such as methocarbamol, to help relieve painful muscle spasms 

• Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to reduce inflammation. These should not be used with NSAIDs. 
• Nerve pain medications, such as gabapentin, to treat nerve pain and provide sedation if needed. 
• Opioids, such as buprenorphine or fentanyl, for severe back pain 
• Antibiotics, such as Rilexine, to treat certain bacterial infections 

• Antifungals, such as itraconazole, to treat certain fungal infections 

Surgery for Back Pain in Dogs 

Dogs may require back surgery for resolution of their pain. This is the case for some dogs who have back pain due to trauma, as well as many dogs with IVDD. 

Surgery is typically done at a specialty veterinary hospital by an orthopedic surgeon and can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000 depending on the type of surgery and location of the veterinary hospital.  Hospitalization and supportive care may further increase this cost. 

Pet insurance may help cover the associated costs of surgery in many cases, depending on your pup’s age, health, and how the pain was triggered. It’s always helpful to research pet insurance, specifically when it comes to surgery. 

Physical Therapy and Alternative Therapies 

Physical therapy and alternative therapies are often used in conjunction with medical management and/or surgery to improve back pain.  

Examples include: 

• Hydrotherapy: The use of underwater treadmills or swimming pools to provide low-impact exercise while improving mobility 
• Massage: Hands-on techniques to relieve muscle spasm  
• Acupuncture: Placement of small needles in specific places to release natural endorphins and reduce inflammation. Electroacupuncture may also be used.  
• Laser therapy: Use of a laser to stimulate cellular repair and target deep tissues. 
• Therapeutic exercise: The use of specific exercises to improve mobility and maintain muscle mass 

Recovery and Management of Back Pain in Dogs

Recovery from a sore back in dogs depends on the underlying cause, severity, and treatment. Some dogs with minor muscle strains may improve within a few days, while dogs recovering from spinal surgery may need six to eight weeks or longer. In other cases, such as the development of osteoarthritis, management may be lifelong. 

Your veterinarian may recommend the following: 

• Limit physical activity. Don’t let your dog jump onto furniture, roughhouse, or engage in vigorous exercise. 
• Follow exercise restrictions. Short, controlled leash walks or potty breaks may be appropriate if your veterinarian approves. 
• Provide mobility support. Some dogs recovering from surgery may need a support sling to help them walk safely. 

• Manage excess weight. Overweight dogs may benefit from a veterinarian-supervised weight loss diet, such as Purina Pro Plan Adult Weight Management dog food, to reduce strain on the back. 

• Stay on top of pain meds. Give prescribed medications as directed and attend recommended follow-up appointments. 
• Consider physical therapy or alternative treatments: Some dogs will continue to benefit from physical therapy or alternative treatments as they recover.  

Contact your veterinarian if your dog's pain worsens or they develop new symptoms during recovery.