How to tell if a dog is in chronic pain?
Mason Nienow
2025-08-07 15:09:31
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Dogs may express signs of pain differently depending on the breed, individual, age and chronicity. Behavioral changes due to pain often develop gradually, so being attentive to your dog’s daily habits is key, as these subtle behavioral cues will be more readily detected early on by someone most familiar with the dog. Changes in mobility, such as altered posture, stiffness or limping, and trouble moving, can indicate pain. Changes in activity level, including restlessness, lethargy, and reluctance to exercise, can also be signs of pain. Additionally, behavioral changes like vocalizations, social withdrawal, increased neediness, reactions to touch, excessive grooming, irritability or aggression, panting, and facial expression changes can indicate pain. Changes in daily habits, including loss of appetite, altered sleeping patterns, and accidents in the house, can also be signs of pain. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will evaluate your dog’s condition with a thorough physical exam to identify the cause of their pain and develop a tailored treatment plan.
Cara Tromp
2025-08-07 12:51:08
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Chronic pain in dogs is ongoing pain that can affect your dog's day to day activities. Chronic pain can be caused by conditions such as arthritis and dental issues. 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, excessive licking where they feel pain, irritability or growling, whimpering or howling. 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, difficulty eating. As dogs get older, they are more likely to be affected by chronic pain.
Anastacio Grady
2025-08-07 12:38:12
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If your pet is suffering from chronic pain you may notice one or more of the following symptoms: Decrease in appetite Lack of enthusiasm for play, walks or activities Reluctance to climb stairs or jump Difficulty getting up from sleeping position Tail tucked in or lowered Spending more time sleeping Yelping or whining Irritability Limping Overall sad demeanor. Conditions that lead to chronic pain in dogs, often develop slowly, making signs difficult to spot. This is why regular veterinary exams are essential throughout a pet's lifetime. These pet checkups provide your veterinarian with an opportunity to monitor the health of your four-legged friend over time and spot subtle changes that might otherwise be missed.
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