Why It's Hard to Tell if a Dog is in Pain
Before becoming domesticated pets, dogs had to hide their pain as a survival strategy. As a result, owners may miss signs that their dog is physically uncomfortable. Not all dog pain is expressed as a limping leg or a whimper!
If you understand your dog's temperament and personality, you should be able to detect any signs of pain by watching for abnormal behavior. It is critical to be able to identify this behavior so that your dog can receive timely care.
How Dogs Handle Pain
Dogs tend to hide their pain for as long as possible until symptoms emerge and their owners notice. Concealing signs of disease, injury, and pain helps wild animals avoid being perceived as weak by predators, making them easier targets.
Any sign of pain or discomfort in your dog should be addressed and treated by a veterinarian if necessary, as early detection of disease or illness leads to better health outcomes, fewer long-term complications, and less risk during treatment.
Types of Pain a Dog Can Experience
Like people, dogs can suffer from a variety of health conditions that cause acute or chronic pain, such as dental health issues or disorders of the organs.
Tumors and different types of cancer can also lead to pain. Acute pain can be caused by a foreign object getting stuck in its paw, an injury while exercising, a fall, an accident, or other mishaps.
A dog of any age may contract parasites and suffer subsequent disease or infection. Senior dogs may experience pain from joint or bone disorders. diabetes or other health issues.
Signs a Dog is in Pain
Many dog parents come to us wondering how to know if their dog is in pain. There are a few subtle and clear symptoms that your dog is is pain or suffering. Signs your dog is in pain or discomfort may include:
- Significant decrease in appetite
- Tail tucked in or lowered
- Spending more time sleeping
- Yelping or whining
- Irritability
- Limping
- Reluctance to climb stairs or jump
- Reduced play or enjoyment of exercise
If your once physically active, outgoing, and friendly puppy now cowers when petted, refuses to play, or loses appetite, it could be a sign of pain or discomfort. Changes in behavior may indicate pain and should be reported to your veterinarian, who will examine your dog to determine the underlying health issue or condition. Many dogs tire more easily because, like humans, pain can drain them.
If your dog's pain has recently become a problem or they are in chronic pain, you may notice them sleeping more.
How Pain in Dogs is Treated
Depending on the source of your pet's pain and the diagnosis, we may recommend pain medication, wound care, various therapies, or surgery. Our veterinarians offer a wide range of elective and non-elective surgical procedures, such as soft tissue surgery, orthopedic surgery, dental surgery, and others.
When to Bring Your Dog to the Emergency Vet
If your dog is showing signs of severe pain such as crying, whimpering, or refusing to move, it is best to bring them to the emergency vet immediately. Additionally, if your dog has recently been injured or ingested something toxic and is displaying signs of discomfort, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.