Signs of Pain in Dogs

Educational
Written By Renee Kiffin

  • Limping or lameness

  • Reluctance to move or climb stairs

  • Decreased activity or playfulness

  • Whining, whimpering, or yelping

  • Restlessness or difficulty settling

  • Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns

  • Excessive licking or biting at a specific area

  • Aggression or irritability



Recognizing the signs of musculoskeletal pain in your dog and seeking timely help can significantly improve their quality of life. Early intervention and appropriate management can help reduce pain, enhance mobility, and ensure your dog remains happy and active. If you suspect your dog is experiencing musculoskeletal pain, don't hesitate to call us for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Here are some of the signs to look for:


Behavioural Signs

Reluctance to Move
Hesitation or refusal to perform activities like jumping, running, or climbing stairs. They may have less interest in play or exercise.

Limping or Lameness
An  irregular gait or movement pattern often is associated with favoring one leg or limping

Difficulty Standing Up or Lying Down
Your Dogs may Struggle to get up from a lying position.or they may have difficulty finding a comfortable position to lie down.

Changes in Activity Levels
You may notice  increased rest or reluctance to move. They may avoid walks or tire easily during activities or may not be as playful.


Physical Signs

Stiffness
Stiffness, especially after rest or sleep. Visible discomfort when moving after periods of inactivity.

Swelling
Swelling in joints or affected areas. Warmth in swollen areas, indicates inflammation.

Muscle Atrophy
There is oticeable loss of muscle mass, especially around the affected joints. This is associated with generalized weakness in limbs.

Postural Changes
A noticeable sign is a hunched or rounded  back. hey may hold limbs in unusual positions to avoid pain.


Pain Responses

Vocalization

  • Whining, whimpering, yelping, or growling, especially when moving or touched.

  • Increased vocalization without an obvious cause.

Touch Sensitivity

  • Flinching, pulling away, or showing signs of pain when specific areas are touched.

  • Increased sensitivity in joints or muscles.

Protective Behavior

  • Guarding or protecting a painful area.

  • Avoiding being touched or handled.


Changes in Daily Activities

Altered Grooming Habits

  • Excessive licking or chewing at specific areas.

  • Avoiding grooming certain parts of the body due to pain.

Bathroom Issues

  • Difficulty squatting to urinate or defecate.

  • Accidents in the house due to reluctance to move outside.


Emotional and Physiological Signs

Increased Irritability or Aggression

  • Unusual aggression towards people or other pets.

  • Irritability when approached or handled.

Withdrawal or Hiding

  • Seeking solitude or hiding more than usual.

  • Decreased interest in social interaction.

Changes in Appetite

  • Decreased appetite or difficulty eating.

  • Weight loss or gain due to changes in activity and eating habits.

Renee Kiffin