What this means
Normally a dog that itches scratches straight at the skin, with the claws and leg meeting the coat. Here it is different: the dog moves its leg as if scratching, but the claws hang in the air and do not reach the skin, or only just brush it. It may happen on the lead, when excited, lying down or playing, and often repeats in the same situations. The skin usually shows no damage or scratch marks.
Such a movement can be a sign that the dog feels something unpleasant around the head, neck or shoulder that cannot be seen from the outside. Sometimes it is linked to changes in the nervous system or spinal cord, sometimes to neck pain or ear problems, and sometimes it is ordinary itch that simply does not reach the skin. These cannot be told apart at home, and guessing may delay a proper examination.
A short video taken while your dog is scratching at the air will help your vet a great deal. Write down when it started, in which situations it repeats, whether your dog also whimpers, whether its voice has changed, whether it dislikes having its head or neck touched, and whether its legs sometimes look weak or do not obey.
Possible causes
These are things that can cause this sign. It is not a diagnosis, and they are not equally likely for your dog.
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A spinal cord problem
A fluid-filled cavity or other changes in the upper part of the spinal cord can cause odd sensations in the neck and shoulder, which makes the dog scratch at the air.
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Neck pain or a pinched nerve
A painful neck bone or nerve can cause a movement like scratching. The dog may whimper or be unwilling to lift its head.
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Ear problems
Ear inflammation or irritation can make a dog scratch in places its leg cannot reach. Head shaking often goes with it.
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Itchy skin
Fleas, allergy or dry skin can also cause scratching. In that case changes in the coat or skin can usually be seen.
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Irritation from a collar or harness
A collar or harness that is too tight or rubs can irritate the skin on the neck and prompt scratching.
What else to watch for
These observations help your vet build the picture faster. Note down what you saw and when.
- In which situations your dog scratches at the air: walking, excited or resting
- Whether the claws touch the skin or hang in the air
- Whether it also whimpers, yelps or cannot settle
- Whether it dislikes having its head, neck or shoulder touched
- Whether the neck looks stiff, or your dog is reluctant to lower or lift its head
- Whether its legs sometimes look weak or its walking changes
When to book a routine visit
If your dog repeatedly scratches at the air, especially with whimpering or sensitivity around the neck, book a vet appointment and show them a video.
Related conditions
Conditions whose entries mention this sign. The list is somewhere to read on, not a way to reach a diagnosis.
Body systems: Nerves and muscles