What is silent pain in dogs?
Shad Kertzmann
2025-07-29 23:04:24
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Dogs are hardwired to hide their pain. It’s in their code to disguise pain as it signals weakness and frailty, making them more vulnerable to predators. This is precisely why many of us find it difficult to recognise that our dog is in pain — their signals can be silent and can go unnoticed because they’re not shouting about it. As we know, there are many diseases and conditions that can cause pain, and certain pain signals will be specific to a particular disease. Dogs can’t talk about their pain but a dog that’s suffering over a period of time will start feeling very unhappy with life. Dogs can’t express their pain.
Eddie Rippin
2025-07-29 22:01:17
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: 20
Dogs do not show pain in the same way as humans do. Chronic pain is invisible and very difficult to see, as it appears gradually over time. There are no obvious changes in your dog’s behaviour or physical capability and subtle signs are difficult to identify. Chronic pain is on-going and long term. It is often referred to as ‘maladaptive pain’ as it does not appear to have a protective purpose. Dogs often do not vocalise silent pain – even if it is severe. Pain is an essential, unpleasant, and common sensation usually associated with tissue damage. Silent pain builds up very slowly – over a long period of time. The misinterpreted signs of aging such as, slowing down on walks, becoming stiffer, postural changes and reluctance to partake in activities can often signify underlying discomfort and pain. Dogs have an inherited, hardwired, deep rooted, survival instinct to hide pain and weakness.
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