Do Dogs Have a Higher Pain Tolerance Than Humans? 7 Myths

Every dog owner hopes their furry friend never suffers from pain, but unfortunately, back and neck pain are common issues that can affect dogs of any breed or age. Spinal pain in dogs can result from various conditions including intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), spondylosis, spinal cord tumors, discospondylitis (infection of the disc space), and inflammatory conditions affecting the spinal cord or surrounding structures. Recognizing the signs of spinal pain early and seeking prompt veterinary attention can significantly improve outcomes.

Signs of back or neck pain in dogs can range from subtle to dramatic. A dog experiencing spinal pain may be reluctant to jump, climb stairs, or lie down and rise from rest. They may adopt an abnormal posture, holding the neck extended or the back hunched. Yelping or crying when touched in certain areas, loss of interest in activity, changes in gait including weakness or wobbling of the hindlimbs, and in severe cases complete paralysis of one or more limbs are all signs that warrant urgent veterinary evaluation. Any sudden onset of paralysis or inability to use the hind legs should be treated as an emergency.

Diagnosis of spinal conditions typically begins with a neurological examination to localize the lesion, followed by imaging. While radiographs can identify some spinal changes such as bony proliferation or disc calcification, advanced imaging with MRI or CT scanning is required to fully characterize soft tissue lesions including disc extrusions and spinal cord compression. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and severity: mild IVDD cases may be managed with strict rest and anti-inflammatory medication, while more severe cases causing significant neurological deficits typically require surgical decompression for the best outcomes. Prompt treatment dramatically improves the prognosis for recovery of neurological function.