How To Know If Your Dog Is In Pain Unlike human adults and children, dogs often suffer in silence when they are in pain. Dogs are unable to talk or provide us with facial expressions as a cue, so it can be difficult to know when they are suffering and in pain. If a dog has a visible injury, we can assess the amount of pain a dog is in based on the nature of the injury, but what about pain caused from illness or inflammation caused by arthritis or muscle tears? To better help dog owners better recognize if their pets are in pain, we have provided a list of signs to look out for: 1. If your dog is suddenly showing signs of agitation or aggression, it might be because she is in pain. You know your dog better than anyone, so if she is suddenly sensitive, nippy or has become unfriendly, it may be due to pain rather than a behavior issue. 2. Is your dog whimpering or yelping, growling, or howling? This may also be a sign that he is in pain. 3. If your dog is suddenly sensitive to touch and doesn’t appear to enjoy cuddling and being petted, it may be because he is in pain. Dogs are naturally affectionate with their owners so if you find your dog is spending more time isolating himself, this could indicate that he is experiencing pain. 4. If your dog is suddenly shy or hiding a lot, sleeping more or is less active than normal this may be a sign she is in pain. 5. If your dog is less interested in food, doesn’t have normal begging patterns or isn’t finishing the same amount of food that she is used to eating, it may be due to pain. 6. Is your dog licking himself constantly? A dog that licks a lot may be trying to self soothe and this could also be an indicator of pain, especially if it is accompanied by other signs. 7. Does your dog have mobility issues? Is he limping or favoring one leg over another? Pay attention to how he runs, walks and what his gate looks like to see if you discover any signs of pain. Also, look for swelling in paws, legs and your dog’s face, or any unusual bumps on his body. Some dogs have a very rigid hunch or stance or take a prayer position with their front legs on the ground and their bottom in the air when they have abdominal pain. 8. If you are able to listen to her heart or watch her breathing patterns, a rapid shallow breath and an increased heart rate can also indicate that your dog is in pain. 9. Is your dog shaking or trembling? Some dogs are nervous or anxious and may do this from time to time, but if you see that shaking and trembling has increased or is happening at unusual times, this may be a sign of distress caused by pain.
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