Hi all,

Bit of a strange on here.

I'm not sure when this started but definitely over a month ago, but Nando has started to 'tense' his skin when he is touched on his back/sides. It looks like he's just shocked to be touched but it happens repeatedly even when petting him. It only happens when he's stood up or sat, not when he's lying down.

It's like his skin 'jumps' tight and relaxes again.

I don't think he's in pain, there's no cuts or bruises etc and usually he'd be vocal if there was as he's a bit of a wimp.

I never thought anything of it until someone mentioned it as a symptom of their dog with a damaged spine. Then I thought I'd ask. A vers appt seems stupid at this moment in time as he is petrified and wouldn't act in this same way.

I would get him checked out by a chiropractor definitely worth following up just for peace of mind mctimony are probably best as very gentle.

I've had dogs do this when having acupuncture......I was told it can be a sign of muscle tightness but certainly has never been a damaged spine.

I also know an experienced breeder who says she can always tell when her dogs have a flare up of Cheytiella (sp) mite as they tense when touched along the back.

I wouldn't assume the worst and worry too much if......mine do it sometimes especially if they have had been working hard

Ali

Is it possible he's a bit itchy? Had he recently had a bath? Part the fur and have a close look at his skin, it may be a bit dry or flaky. Horses do this when a fly lands on them. I'm not an expert but I would expect a back injury to present at least some indication of pain.

I've always taken that as a sign of tenderness somewhere, not out and out pain, but certainly a bit sore.

One of my Malinois is like this. It goes away after a trip to the chiro/ canine massage. They have said its due to tight muscles.

I have had a good look at his skin and there's no flakes or dry patches. The more I think about it, the more I can't remember a time he hasn't done this. I have just checked now and he's not doing it but it definitely goes on and off.

I would still have a think about a few sessions with chiro even if its something he has always done. A good one wont let you spend your money if there is no problem

I'll get searching.