Dogs are wonderful pets and can provide immeasurable love and companionship. We treasure the time we spend with them, love how happy they are to see us, and appreciate their unique personalities. Like any member of our family, we want them to be able to have happy and healthy lives.
There may be times in life, though, when our dog is going through some health issues and might be suffering. Unfortunately, they can’t talk to us and tell us exactly what is going on. Dogs can be good at hiding pain. If you want to ensure their well-being and health, it’s important to know the key signs and symptoms of pain in dogs.
1. Changes in Their Behaviour
Pain can cause your dog to behave differently. A dog that is friendly and energetic may become more withdrawn, or even aggressive, if they are suffering and in discomfort. These changes in their behaviour are not a mood swing, but are a strong indicator of emotional or physical stress.
Some dogs may exhibit different behaviour, by seeking isolation or becoming more clingy. Studies show that these changes can be a key sign of chronic pain in your dog. This is especially true in pets that are older or those with painful conditions like arthritis.
2. Vocalisations
Increased whimpering, yelping, whining, or growling can be one of the signs a dog is in pain. These vocalisations may often happen when your pet is touched or moved; they can even occur when the dog rests, depending on what is causing the discomfort.
Vocalisations are instinctive responses to chronic or acute pain. How and when these sounds occur can provide keen insights into the severity and location of the pain.
3. Difficulty Moving or Limping
Limping is a sign of physical pain, and may be due to arthritis, injury, or issues due to a neurological condition. A dog might also show stiffness after rest, or even be reluctant to take part in activities they once loved, such as running or playing fetch.
Hesitation to move or subtle limping could also be an early warning sign of hip dysplasia or joint degradation. Recurring movement difficulties shouldn’t be ignored. With early intervention, you can help prevent more long-term damage and improve your dog’s quality of life.
4. Changes to Their Eating and Drinking
When your dog is suffering and in pain, it can negatively impact their water intake and appetite. Gastrointestinal issues, dental problems, or systemic diseases can also cause a dog to eat less food or even avoid food entirely.
Some painful conditions, like diabetes or kidney disease, may increase a dog’s thirst. A sudden alteration in your dog’s eating or drinking habits is a sign that they need immediate attention from their veterinarian.
5. Trouble Sleeping or Restlessness
It can be difficult for a dog to find a comfortable sleeping posture or rest when they are in pain. Frequent changes in position, restlessness, or pacing during the night are typical indicators of pain.
A dog may also sleep more during daytime if they are tired from a night of constantly interrupted rest. Disturbances in sleep are closely connected to chronic pain, especially in older pets.
6. Excessive Licking or Grooming
Dogs may often chew or lick painful areas as they try to soothe the discomfort. This type of behaviour might target paws, joints or surgical sites. When repeated over time, excessive grooming can result in skin infections, hair loss, or formation of sores.
These self-soothing actions are both a psychological and physical response to your dog’s pain. Identifying patterns can help with the diagnosis and subsequent treatment of health issues.
7. Changes in Breathing
Pronounced changes in your dog’s breathing, such as shallow breathing, laboured respiration, or panting, can be an indicator of stress or pain. Symptoms like these may occur even if the dog is in a cooler environment, or while they are at rest. A high level of pain can stimulate their nervous system, and increase their respiratory rate.
The development of altered breathing is one of those serious signs a dog is in pain and it should never be overlooked. If your dog has abdominal or chest pain, changes in their respiration may be one of the few visible signs of what is going on inside. Sudden or continuous changes in your pet’s breathing merit an immediate visit to your vet for further evaluation.
