As discussed  XX is showing signs of neck or back pain.

This could be muscular or related to arthritis or even disc disease, however, I am not able to confirm this via a video or telephone consultation.

Prolapsed (often termed slipped) discs are a severe form of disc disease that happen when the centre of the disc between two vertebrae bulges and presses on the spinal nerves. I am not able to rule out such a severe disease without a clinical examination and it is important that this is ruled out in order to prevent deterioration.

If untreated, such a condition could deteriorate and lead to the following symptoms:

- Severe pain

- Loss nerve  sensation

- Loss of balance

- Problems with urination and defecation

- Paralysis

In your dog's case, it seems that the only symptom is sporadic/mild pain from the back or neck. In order to avoid deterioration, I recommend that you contact the nearest open veterinary clinic for a physical examination and treatment.

Similarly to people with back pain, rest is very important. I therefore recommend that your dog has complete rest until the veterinary examination. Your dog should not jump, run or climb stairs.

Contact your normal veterinary surgery for a physical examination. Once your vet better understands the likely cause of the painful symptoms they may provide you with appropriate pain medication as necessary or they may suggest further examinations to clarify the cause.

Rapid deterioration in symptoms of back or neck pain would constitute an emergency and you should seek attention immediately.