Is Your Dog in Pain? Key Signs Every Dog Parent Should Know!

Last Wednesday, my lovely Vivienne decided to give me the fright of my life. 

Instead of her usual race up the stairs with Trixie, she was reluctant to even walk up, and then refused to make the jump onto the bed (yes, she sleeps in our bed!).

As dog parents, we’re typically very attuned to our dogs’ body language, and I could immediately tell that something wasn’t right. But if you’ve recently welcomed a new puppy or rescue dog, signs of pain and discomfort can be harder to recognise. 

In this blog, I’ll be sharing some of the most common signs of pain and discomfort in dogs. While some are easy to recognise, others may be more subtle and easy to overlook.

As always, I would like to reiterate that I am not a veterinary professional. The information included in this blog is from my own experiences as a dog mum and further online research. 

If you notice any changes in your dog or suspect they might be unwell, contact your vet immediately for further advice.

Signs of Pain & Discomfort in Dogs

Antisocial or Aggressive Behaviour

Any noticeable change in your dog’s behaviour can be cause for concern. For example, they might stop running to greet you at the door, try to avoid contact, or even act out aggressively.

In Vivienne’s case, her reluctance to climb the stairs and jump into bed were two clear signs that something was amiss. Other signs to watch out for include hiding away, shying from touch, or withdrawing from interactions they usually enjoy.

Changes in Appetite 

A loss of appetite - or drinking more or less water than usual - can be a telltale sign of discomfort. Difficulty eating, particularly dried foods or chews, may indicate dental pain.

While Vivienne has always been a fussy eater, she became particularly picky in the days leading up to her obvious discomfort - another alarm bell for me!

Changes in Sleep Pattern 

Pain and discomfort can affect your dog’s usual sleep routine. Some may sleep more, conserving energy to heal, while others may struggle to get comfortable, leading to restlessness or pacing.

If your dog seems unsettled, restless, or is noticeably sleeping more than usual, it’s worth investigating further.

Excessive Vocalising

Whether it’s yelping, growling, snarling, or even howling, excessive vocalising can be your dog’s way of telling you something’s not right.

Excessive panting - especially when they haven’t been exercising - can also be a sign of pain, as can shallow breathing, which could indicate discomfort when breathing.

Mobility Issues

Stiffness, limping, or reluctance to move are obvious signs of discomfort, and are likely the result of injury, sore paws, or even arthritis. As with Vivienne, your dog might be reluctant to climb stairs, or they may be noticeably slow when getting up.

For particularly active dogs, reduced interest in walks or playtime can also be a subtle clue that something’s amiss.

Body and Posture Changes

When in pain, your dog may adopt unusual postures. Some might appear rigid and hunched, while others assume a ‘prayer’ position - front legs stretched forward and bottom in the air, similar to a ‘play bow.’

This posture is often seen in dogs experiencing abdominal pain, as it allows them to stretch and relieve discomfort.

Shaking or Trembling

While trembling is often associated with being cold, it can also indicate pain or something more serious, like poisoning, pancreatitis, or kidney disease.

For example, ingestion of toxic substances like chocolate, compost, or xylitol can cause severe muscle tremors.

Types of Pain in Dogs

Acute Pain: This type of pain comes on suddenly, often due to injury or a minor illness, and usually resolves within a few days.

Chronic Pain: This is ongoing pain that can affect your dog's day to day activities and quality of life. It can be caused by conditions such as arthritis and dental issues, and is more common in older dogs.

What to Do if your Dog Shows Signs of Pain

Dogs are experts at hiding their pain, so it’s often easy to miss or overlook it. But if your dog is showing any of the above signs, or you are in any way concerned about their welfare, it's important to contact your vet as soon as possible.

They will ask you about the signs you have noticed and may perform a physical exam or additional tests, such as X-rays, to identify the cause and prescribe a suitable treatment. Treatment may involve pain relief, anti-inflammatory medication, or lifestyle adjustments to help your dog stay comfortable.

Vivienne’s Diagnosis

After a thorough vet examination, it was determined that Vivienne’s discomfort was likely due to a muscle spasm or the early stages of arthritis. She was prescribed two days’ worth of Diazepam, which quickly alleviated her symptoms, and is now back to chasing Trixie up the stairs to bed!

Final Thoughts

Recognising pain in dogs can sometimes feel like a guessing game, but staying attuned to their behaviour and trusting your instincts is key. If something seems off, don’t wait - seek professional advice as soon as possible. Early intervention can make a world of difference in your dog’s comfort and recovery.

If you’re worried about increasing veterinary costs, check out my recent blog, “Your Dog’s New Year Checklist,” where I share more information on the Complete Wellness Plan at White Cross Vets. For just £28.50 per dog per month, the plan covers the cost of consultations, monthly flea and worming treatments, and much more - alleviating the financial strain and offering peace of mind that your dogs are always taken care of. 

And if you haven’t already, follow me on Instagram for real-time updates, tips, and plenty of adorable moments with Vivienne and Trixie.