1. Watch for a limp.
One of the most obvious signs of pain is limping. Limping occurs when the pain puts weight on the leg.
If the leg is causing pain, it is less likely to be used and may sometimes rely on the other three legs.
Dogs in pain are also usually less likely to be in pain.
2. Watch for other mobility problems.
In addition to a limp, you may see other mobility changes. For example, your dog may not be able to get up or down. He may also move more slowly than usual, or show an unwillingness to do certain activities.
Indecision to go up or down stairs, run or jump may be a sign of distress.
3. Observe changes in posture.
Note the position of your dog’s head or tail. Any change in normal posture, such as a hanging or pleated tail in a dog that usually has a moving tail, can be evidence of pain.
If your dog is holding his leg in a different way than normal, this may indicate that he is in pain.
Pain may also cause your dog to stand with his back arched or to be very stiff when standing or moving.
4. Pay attention to your dog’s breathing.
If your dog is in pain, you may see an increase in their breathing rate or panting.
Dogs who insist on exercising, especially in cool weather, may be in pain.
5. Check your dog’s eyes.
Your dog’s eyes can tell you a lot about any pain you may be experiencing. If the eye is sore, you may see squinting, redness, and cloudiness.
Your dog may also be rubbing at an injured area. If your dog rubs his eyes a lot, this could be a sign of discomfort in this area.
The eyes can also give you clues to other areas of pain. Squinting may be a sign of eye pain, but some dogs squint when they experience pain in other areas as well.
Dilated pupils may also be a sign that your dog is in pain.
6. Beware of biting.
Pain can change a dog’s behavior. Even a very friendly dog will be more likely to bite.
Even a dog that has never bitten before will bite when approached if it is in obvious pain.
A dog in pain may also bite if you touch or move a painful area. When a painful area is touched, the natural response is to turn toward the area. The dog may try to bite out of instinct.
You may see warning signs such as growling first. Dogs that bite the edges may stick their ears back or show their teeth. This is a natural protective mechanism that dogs can use to try to prevent further pain.
7. Loss of appetite.
A dog in pain may reduce its food consumption. If your dog suddenly has a reduced appetite, this may be a sign of pain.
Dogs suffering from oral pain may also drop food while eating.
8. Restlessness.
A dog in pain may feel irritable or unable to get comfortable. Your dog can show this by pacing, repeatedly adjusting its position or coming up and down frequently.
9. Sleep changes.
A dog in pain may experience a change in normal sleep schedule. A dog in pain may sleep more than usual or have difficulty sleeping.
10. Listen for changes in the dog’s vocalizations.
Unusual vocalizations, including moaning, groaning, whimpering, and even growling may be signs of distress.
These sounds may be associated with specific movements, such as when getting up for the first time. This can help you understand the nature of the pain.
Dogs that normally vocalize may also suddenly become quiet.
11. Flinching when touched.
Avoidance behaviors, such as hiding or avoiding contact with people or other animals, are common when a dog is in pain. These behaviors are designed to avoid potentially painful situations.
If your dog moves his head away or makes other movements to avoid contact when trying to pet him, this may be a sign of distress. If your dog typically likes to be touched, make a note of these behaviors.
These behaviors may be accompanied by a dog that flinches more and interacts less than normal.
If your dog is experiencing pain, you may also notice a depressed or mentally retarded attitude.
Note that if they are in pain, some dogs may seek more attention rather than avoid it. You should be aware of avoidance or unusually high levels of attention seeking behavior.
12. Pay attention to your dog’s potty habits.
Understanding your dog’s normal hygiene habits can help you recognize many different problems.
When a dog is in pain, you may notice that he exhibits different postures when urinating or defecating. For example, a male dog that normally lifts his legs to urinate may not.
You may also see a change in how often your dog needs to conduct business. Or, if it is painful for your dog to reach places they often go, accidents may occur.
Pain can also change the consistency of your dog’s stool due to the associated stress. It can also lead to constipation.
13. The “pray” position is usually done when the stomach hurts.
