Back Pain in Dogs: Get to Know the Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Back pain in dogs can be caused by conditions such as muscle spasm from over exercise or invertebral disc disease. It can also be associated with bite wounds, inflammation, infection or soft tissue injuries. Disc disorders such as degenerative disc and trauma to the spine may be seen such as fracture or dislocation. Other causes may be associated with cancer or kidney disease.

Pain may present as personality and behavior changes. More noticeably you may see changes in but your dog's mobility and posture. Their back may curve upwards indicating abnormal spin alignment, they may show symptoms of ataxia (lack of coordination, inability to walk properly) loss of appetite, fever, stiff neck (unable to turn or raise their head) and yelps or moans when moving. Dogs may show reluctance in carrying out activities they previously enjoyed and reluctance to exercise. Your veterinarian will be able to determine the causes and treatment for back pain in dogs. They may carry out physical examinations, take a history of symptoms, order blood tests, urinalysis, spinal fluid analysis, CT, MRI or x-rays.

Treatment will vary depending on the cause of the back pain in dogs although more common forms of joint pain will be treated with prescription medications such as pain relievers and anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Antibiotics may be prescribed if the pain is caused by infection, muscle relaxers may also help to reduce muscle spasms. In cases of cancer, chemotherapy may be prescribed. Rest is also important when treating back pain as is limiting certain types of activity in your dog such as jumping or extended periods of exercise. In chronic conditions, surgery may be required particularly for spine related problems such as disease or cancer. Household adjustments such as using harnesses rather than collars, helps to avoid any further injury to the neck. Orthopedic beds may help to relieve pressure on the joints whilst your dog is sleeping. Diet and exercise is also important ensuring your dog takes part in moderate low impact exercise rather than high impact which may cause extra wear and tear. Physical therapy and massage can offer immediate relief if your dog is able to tolerate this.

Pet owners often choose to supplement prescription medications with natural supplements to address back pain in dogs, as these may reduce the need for long term use of NSAIDs which are associated with side effects and drug interactions. These may include vitamins and minerals as well as joint specific ingredients such as MSM,
glucosamine and chondroitin, which are considered the building blocks of cartilage formation and repair. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before using these in case of any drug interactions.