By Dr. Rebecca MacMillan BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS
When caring for a pet, problems will crop up from time to time. So, it is important to be able to recognise when something is wrong and know when to act on it. Calling your vet is always the right thing to do if you suspect your dog is unwell, and this guide can help you better understand what to look out for.
Different types of pain
It is important to recognise that different dogs may feel and react to pain differently, just as some humans seem to tolerate things better than others. Differences in pain threshold have been demonstrated, plus some breeds may be much more vocal or reactive than others. This also means that some dogs can be in a lot of pain but not give many clues away. That is why it is so important for us to be able to pick up on early signs.
The type of pain can also influence the nature of your dog’s symptoms –
Acute pain
Acute pain comes on suddenly. It is often more noticeable and easily recognised by owners. Examples include injuries, infections, surgical wounds and gastrointestinal diseases like pancreatitis.
Chronic pain
Chronic pain creeps up on our pets more gradually. This means symptoms are also very subtle to begin with and can easily go unnoticed. Dogs often adapt their behaviour and movements over a long period to ‘cope’. Causes of chronic pain can include osteoarthritis and dental disease.
How to tell if your dog is in pain – key signs to look out for
Signs of a dog in pain can be divided into two broad categories, physical and behavioural, although there is some overlap. Many dogs will show a combination of these.
Physical signs of pain
Swelling, inflammation or injury
If your dog has an injury, a swelling or any inflammation then you can be sure that they are experiencing pain. Broken limbs, cuts, bite wounds, allergic reactions, joint disease and infections can all cause these symptoms. The degree of injury may influence how much your dog feels pain.
Changes in heart and breathing rate
An elevated heart rate and breathing rate are very common in acute (sudden onset) pain. This can be due to fear or anxiety, but because of the onset of shock. It could also be due to a problem affecting the heart and lungs directly.
Changes in mobility
If your dog is changing the way they move, for example by limping or moving more slowly than usual, then this can be a sign of pain. Dogs will try and protect sore areas of their body by guarding them - shifting their weight accordingly to take the pressure off. Some dogs will even stop moving around altogether because they are too uncomfortable. Many dogs will also struggle to jump up or appear stiffer than usual.
Reduced exercise tolerance
Your dog may be less keen to go on walks or they could be struggling while out on one. A slowed walking pace or not being able to do their normal amount of exercise could indicate that your pet is in pain.
Weight loss of muscle atrophy
A dog that is in pain may eat less than usual, which over time could lead to weight loss. Changes in the way an animal exercises or moves their body could also lead to muscle atrophy (wastage). This is common in dogs with arthritis or other joint disease.
Overgrooming or excessive licking
A dog that is licking themselves or scratching excessively could be in pain. Many dogs will try and alleviate their discomfort by licking, to self-soothe. This could lead to saliva-stained fur or secondary skin changes. A dog with skin allergies may overgroom like this, but we also commonly see it in dogs with sore joints.
Behavioural signs of pain
Changes in social interactions
A dog that is in pain may hide away and not want to engage with you. They could appear subdued or irritable when you try to handle them. They also may not want to play or go for their usual walks. Alternatively, some pets demand more attention when they are in pain, looking to you for comfort.
Signs of aggression
A dog in pain may react aggressively, particularly if you touch the sore area of their body. This could include growling, teeth-baring, snapping or even biting. Some animals just seem generally grumpier than usual.
Increased vocalisation
Some dogs vocalise when they are in pain. This could include whining, whimpering, groaning, or yelping. Some dogs may also growl. Not all dogs vocalise, and differences are seen between breeds, ages, and personality types.
Changes in appetite and sleeping habits
Dogs that are in pain may spend the day sleeping more than usual. Alternatively, they could struggle to rest because they find it difficult to get comfortable. If your pet is normally a good eater but starts to go off their food, then this could be a sign that they are in pain.
Sensitivity to touch
Some dogs become much more nervous about being touched or groomed. They could flinch when you handle them or react negatively by growling or yelping.
What should I do if my dog is in pain?
If your dog is showing signs of pain (either physical or behavioural) then you must get them seen by a vet. It is important to get a proper diagnosis and correct treatment for your pet’s condition. The sooner you seek help, the sooner your dog will be feeling more like their normal self again.
Never try and self-treat or use home remedies, without a discussion with your vet. You could prolong your pet’s suffering and potentially allow problems to get worse.
Our pain diary can help work out if your dog is having more bad days than good and can be a helpful aid alongside veterinary advice.
Summary
We have discussed an array of different signs to look out for in dogs experiencing pain. Any of these changes in your pet’s behaviour or physical abilities should be taken seriously. If you have concerns at all about your dog’s health, then speak to your vet. It is better to act sooner rather than later, particularly when it comes to managing pain and providing effective pain relief.
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