Jack Russell Terrier Leg or Muscle Pain

by April Steele
(Easley S.C. USA)

We have a 3-year-old jack named Juke. The last couple of days he has had some pain in his legs or muscles. I am not sure of the pin point. He has always been very energetic and ready to go running and playing now he is having problems just getting on the couch. We have to pick him up to put him in bed at night.

I am really worried about our baby. Do you have any idea what is going on with him?? He has not been hurt or stung or anything like that it just all of sudden started hurting him???????

Thanks so much for any idea you may have

April


Vet Suggestion for Treating Jack Russell Joint, Muscle or Leg Pain


Hi April,

I’m afraid it’s impossible for me to determine exactly what is going on with your dog without first examining him, but I can talk to you about some conditions that I’ve diagnosed in other dogs with similar symptoms. Even though you didn’t see him injure himself, it is still certainly possible that he may have a soft tissue injury like a muscle strain or tendon/ligament injury.

Accidents can happen quickly – for example a dog might land “funny” when jumping off a piece of furniture and tweak a muscle, nerve, or ligament. Another possibility is a back injury. Jack Russell’s are prone to intervertebral disk disease, which can cause symptoms like you describe.

If your dog is not significantly improved within a few days or gets worse at any time, bring him in to see your veterinarian. He or she should be able to pinpoint the location of the discomfort with a physical exam and determine whether additional diagnostic tests (e.g., X-rays) are necessary before coming up with an appropriate treatment plan.


Best of luck,

Jennifer Coates, DVM