Is there a way to tell if a dog is in pain?

However, there are a number of behavioural signs, some more obvious than others, that can indicate pain in dogs. Dogs who are in pain may limp or show signs of stiffness. Just like humans, dogs suffering pain may go off their food. If your dog’s appetite suddenly changes or you notice any form of inappetence, you should seek veterinary advice, as this could be a symptom of a dangerous ailment. Each dog will react differently to the type and dosage level of pain relief medication, so always monitor your dog’s response.

While most pet owners believe they would know if their pet was in pain, the truth is it can be very difficult to recognise the signs a dog is in pain. Our doggos may not be able to tell us with words so we’ve put together a handy checklist of physical symptoms that can alert us to when they may be experiencing pain. To help you know what to look for, we have put together a list of the most common signs a dog is in pain: Vocalisation When our furry friends are in pain they tend to be more vocal. A hurt dog may express their pain either through whining, whimpering, yelping, growling, and even howling. Decreased social interaction or seeking attention Behavioural changes can be a strong indicator of pain, and a decrease in social interaction is one of the most common. Changes in posture or difficulty moving Has your dog’s posture changed, such as seeming to hunch or be rigid. Has the way they walk changed. Maybe their general movements have changed, like seeming to have difficulty or being slow when standing up after laying down. Are they having trouble climbing up stairs or are they not as active as they usually are. These are all signs your dog may be in pain. Decreased appetite A loss of appetite, especially if your dog has always enjoyed their food, is a common indicator of pain. Changes in grooming behaviour When a dog becomes hurt, their first instinct is to clean and care for their wound by licking the area. Physical changes There are also less obvious physical signs your dog may be in pain. These can include heavy breathing or shallow panting, increased heart rate and bloodshot eyes. Swelling of their paws, legs and face are also an indication they may be in pain.

You can spot signs of pain in your dog by carefully monitoring their behaviour and physical health. There are two ways you can spot signs of pain in your dog: Changes in behaviour and physical signs of pain. You'll know your dog's normal behaviour best and whether they're acting out of character. If you spot any unusual behaviour, it could be a sign that they're in pain. Common behavioural signs of pain include a lack of interest in playing, walking or going outside, a lack of energy or depression, a reluctance to be touched or handled, toileting indoors, or struggling to toilet. Physical signs of pain may be easier to spot, especially if your dog is normally active. These include limping, a slower walk than normal or refusal to walk, a reluctance to lie down or difficulty getting up, difficulty jumping on furniture or using the stairs, and difficulty eating.