Do dogs act weird when they are in pain?
Zoe Green
2025-07-30 03:17:08
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Dogs who exhibit unexpected behaviour after they have had more exercise than usual may be in pain. If your dog is less energetic or less cheerful than usual, doesn’t engage in the activities they usually enjoy, acts restless, becomes unusually clingy, or stops socialising as much or as happily as they used to, they may be experiencing discomfort. If a dog who usually takes any opportunity to play with reckless abandon ceases to be interested in playtime, it could be a sign that something hurts. Sometimes when dogs are in pain, they don’t want other dogs near them, especially if those dogs are young, bouncy or exuberant. If it is inconsistent with a dog’s personality to shy away from other dogs, doing so might mean they’re protecting an already tender area. If your dog reacts negatively to a touch that they would normally like, that reaction may be due to pain. Changes in a dog’s behaviour or body may be subtle, making noticing a problem more difficult. Any change can mean something is wrong. Reacting badly to being touched, loss of appetite, avoiding other dogs, and unwilling to play are all signs that a dog may be in pain.
Kim Gulgowski
2025-07-30 01:30:41
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Dogs can’t tell us they feel pain – many are often experiencing a degree of pain which makes their behaviours worse. And sometimes the way they show that can be really odd – such as eating grass, fly snapping at nothing in the air, or aggressive outbursts. Pain doesn’t just mean limping or whimpering. Dogs are masters at hiding discomfort, and often, behavioural changes are their only way of communicating their pain. By the time the dog is visibly limping, then the pain is pretty bad. How do dogs show they might be in pain without limping or whining? Growling or snapping when disturbed if sleeping or resting. Growling when someone approaches them if they’re lay on the sofa, or leans on them for a cuddle etc. Snapping at other dogs if they sniff a sore area like their back legs or paws. Being hyperactive and unable to settle or keeps getting up to change position. Less keen to get involved in activities they usually love doing like playing. Eating things they shouldn’t such as stones, grass or unusual items can be a sign of tummy issues. Changes in Activity Level: A once-energetic dog might become reluctant to play, go for walks, or even climb stairs. Increased Vocalization: Whining, groaning, or barking more than usual can be signs of pain, especially when lying down or getting up.
Leopoldo Crist
2025-07-29 23:39:11
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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. Our pooches have an instinctive drive to hide pain to avoid showing weakness, and consequently, they are very good at hiding their ailments. 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. Behavioural changes can be a strong indicator of pain, and a decrease in social interaction is one of the most common. Has your usually friendly dog started showing signs of aggression? Do they avoid contact or no longer greet you at the door? Changes in posture or difficulty moving are also signs your dog may be in pain. Some dogs may also refuse to move from a position once they have settled and attempts to force them may result in signs of aggression so always be observant of any warning signs your pet may be trying to give you. Dogs who are in pain tend to sleep more. It can be their body’s way of trying to heal or it may be difficult for them to move around and be active. Other dogs may exhibit restlessness and an inability to get comfortable. If your dog is in pain it can make it difficult for them to sit or lie down.
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