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To mark Animal Pain Awareness Month back in September, pet experts have outlined the often subtle signs that dogs may exhibit when they are in pain. Dogs might instinctively try to conceal their discomfort, which means "symptoms can easily be missed", warns Ross Hallifax from pet insurance firm Purely Pets . He explained: "Pain can manifest through physical and behavioural changes and affect dogs of any age. By learning to recognise these signs, owners can better support their dogs' health and wellbeing. As a dog owner, you are their voice and their health advocate. Recognising these signs early can help ensure your dog receives the care they need and gets back to feeling their best." If your dog is suffering, you can spot it by watching for shifts in their behaviour, such as heightened vocalisation, hostility, seeking concealment areas, a reduced enthusiasm for play, or obsessive grooming. Watch for physical indicators like limping, rigidity, alterations in stance, panting, or inflammation, and keep track of any shifts in their eating, drinking, or sleeping patterns. If you suspect your dog is suffering or you notice these symptoms, contact your vet immediately. Do not attempt to treat your dog at home, reports the Express . If your dog has already been examined by a vet, owners are advised to consult the vet again if symptoms persist or worsen. It's sensible to maintain a log of any behavioural or physical alterations to help with diagnosis and treatment. Ibuprofen and naproxen are commonly used and effective treatments for inflammation and pain in humans; however, they should never be given to pets. These medications can be extremely harmful to both dogs and cats. A single 200mg ibuprofen tablet can pose a danger to a cat or a small dog. Vocalisations Some dogs will become more vocal when they're in pain, expressing it through yelping, whining, growling or howling. However, some dogs may try to hide their pain and not vocalise, so it's crucial to keep an eye on other symptoms. Mobility issues or lethargy Limping, reluctance to walk, slower movement, or difficulty lying down or getting up could indicate arthritis, injury, tick-borne illness, or neurological conditions, such as stroke. Behavioural changes Sudden aggression, withdrawal, or changes in temperament could suggest discomfort. These behaviours are often associated with conditions like ear infections, arthritis, or stomach upset. Heavy panting or altered breathing While panting is normal, excessive panting without reason may indicate pain, heatstroke, respiratory problems, or nausea. Shallow breathing could suggest discomfort when taking a breath. Posture changes A hunched back, lowered head, or stiff stance could be signs of pain. Dogs may shift weight forward or adopt a "sawhorse" posture to protect sore areas. Shaking or trembling Shaking or trembling in dogs can be a sign of pain or an indication of more serious conditions such as poisoning, kidney disease, or pancreatitis. Excessive grooming Excessive grooming is another symptom to look out for. Dogs often lick wounds to soothe themselves, but persistent licking may also suggest stress, anxiety, or boredom. Changes in eating and drinking habits Changes in eating and drinking habits can also hint at problems. A decreased appetite or altered water intake can point to dental pain, digestive issues, stress, or anxiety. Your vet will offer specific advice based on your dog's condition, which may involve careful management at home to ease discomfort. It's crucial to keep a close eye on your dog's weight, as excess weight can exacerbate pain associated with conditions like arthritis. Maintaining your dog at a healthy weight will help reduce inflammation. Ensure food and water bowls are easily reachable and provide plenty of soft, cushioned beds for your dog to rest on. Consider fitting a ramp or steps to aid your dog in getting onto furniture or into the car. Cover any slippery areas in your home with rugs or mats to prevent your dog from slipping.
