11 Signs Your Dog May Be In Pain

In this article, I will share eleven signs your dog may display when in pain, which may act as a basic assessment for you to share with your veterinary professional. One of our most difficult responsibilities as caregivers is helping our dogs when they are ill or in pain. It’s often agonizing, and we often second guess whether we are doing the right thing. Can you relate? 

My Dog’s Pain From Attack

I understand how difficult it can be to watch your canine bestie experience pain or illness – I contended with it when Precious, my miniature poodle, and I were attacked by two large dogs. Not only did this result in a genuine fear of large dogs, but the physical pain was evident and heartbreaking.

Veterinary Intervention is Key

The good news is that, with the right treatment and care, a dog’s pain can be managed, and many recover without any detrimental side-effects. Identifying how a dog shows pain helps unravel any behaviour or health-related changes, and gives you the confidence you need to move forward with a treatment plan. As always, it’s crucial that you communicate these changes to your veterinary professional, so they can intervene immediately to avoid long-term chronic pain that could cause further unwanted behaviour.

Be Objective

While determining whether your dog is in pain, it’s imperative that you be objective and focus on the signs. Even though we treat our dogs like family, it’s crucial we assess their needs from an animal’s perspective.

Is Your Dog In pain?

Dogs, like most animals, can’t speak directly, but they often show signs of discomfort or pain through changes in behaviour. Here are some common signs that may indicate your dog is in pain and requires veterinary attention.

1. Stiffness:

Stiffness, particularly after rest or upon waking, can indicate that your dog is in pain. Dogs may whimper, yelp, or avoid stretching due to discomfort. Stiffness is often a symptom of arthritis or other musculoskeletal issues, common in older dogs. In a study on osteoarthritis in dogs, stiffness was found to be a reliable indicator of joint problems (Slingerland et al., 2011).

2. Resting One Or More Legs:

If your dog rests one leg while standing, this could indicate discomfort or pain, often related to joint or muscle injuries. However, it’s crucial not to assume the pain originates from the leg itself; internal issues such as hip dysplasia or nerve pain may also cause this behaviour (Johnston, 1997).

3. Problems Going Up and Down Stairs:

Difficulty with stairs is a classic sign of joint pain, especially in older dogs. This could be related to conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, or spinal issues (Innes & Clayton, 2012). Forcing a dog to navigate stairs when in pain could exacerbate the condition.

4. Difficulty Standing Up:

Dogs in pain often struggle to stand, especially those with hind leg or lower back issues. Observing how your dog rises from a lying position can provide early clues about joint or muscular problems (Anderson et al., 2018).

5. Difficulty Lying Down:

If your dog seems uncomfortable when lying down, either flopping down abruptly or leaning on furniture for support, this can be a sign of pain. This behaviour may be related to musculoskeletal issues or even gastrointestinal discomfort (Bennett & Zainal Ariffin, 2010).

6. Your Dog is Less Active:

A decrease in activity is one of the most common signs of pain. Dogs may lose interest in playing, walking, or social interaction. While this could be due to physical pain, it may also indicate emotional distress such as anxiety or depression (Blackwell, Casey & Bradshaw, 2013).

7. New and Unprovoked Aggression:

Sudden, unexplained aggression can be a sign that your dog is in pain. Like humans, dogs may react aggressively when they feel vulnerable or unwell. Aggression related to pain is particularly common in dogs suffering from conditions like arthritis, dental disease, or internal discomfort (King et al., 2009).

8. Decrease in Appetite and Treats:

Loss of appetite is a general but important sign of discomfort. Dogs in pain may refuse their regular meals or treats. If your dog isn’t eating or drinking normally, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian. In some cases, loss of appetite can also be linked to gastrointestinal pain or systemic illness (Lascelles & Knazovicky, 2019).

9. Change in Normal Comforts:

If your dog usually jumps on the sofa or cuddles with you and suddenly stops doing so, this change in behaviour may be due to discomfort. Changes in these comfort behaviours are often early indicators that something is wrong (Mathews et al., 2014).

10. Changes in Relieving:

Dogs in pain may have accidents indoors, even if they are otherwise well-trained. This can occur when pain makes it difficult for them to move outside to relieve themselves. Urinary incontinence or reluctance to urinate can also be associated with pain (Hielm-Björkman et al., 2011).

11. Doesn’t Want to Be Groomed:

As a caregiver, you know your dog best. These guidelines are not a replacement for medical advice, but offer insight into common signs of pain. Trust your instincts, and if you notice changes in your dog’s behaviour, seek veterinary attention. Keep in mind that dogs, like all animals, may react differently to stress and exercise, so it’s essential to consider all possible factors, including over-exercising or environmental stressors.

Moving Forward

As a caregiver, you know your dog best. These guidelines are not a replacement for medical advice, but offer insight into common signs of pain. Trust your instincts, and if you notice changes in your dog’s behaviour, seek veterinary attention. Keep in mind that dogs, like all animals, may react differently to stress and exercise, so it’s essential to consider all possible factors, including over-exercising or environmental stressors.

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