How Can I Tell if My Dog is in Pain?

It breaks our hearts when our dogs experience pain and as loving pet parents, we never want our dogs to go through that. However, sometimes it can be difficult to even know if our dogs are in pain since they instinctively try to hide their pain and can’t tell us when they’re hurting. Therefore, it’s important to know the signs to look out for so we can proactively get them the help that they need. Some common signs that your dog may be experiencing pain include: 

 

• Physical symptoms: 

• Shaking or trembling

• Arched back

• Holding their head below their shoulders

• Panting

• Changes to the eyes

• Tight or twitching muscles

• Behavioral symptoms:

• Excessive licking

• Altered breathing

• Excessive vocalizations

• Differences in sleeping, drinking, or eating

• Restlessness

• Aggression

• Not wanting to be touched

• Mobility issues:

• Limping

• Walking slower or refusing to walk

• Inability to lie down or get up

• Reluctance to use stairs

 

Dog pain can occur for a variety of reasons such as damage to the bones or joints, soft tissue injuries, sprains, back problems, dental disease, infections, upset stomachs, cancer, and surgeries. If you believe your dog is in pain, then one of the first things you can do is schedule an appointment with your vet. Hold off on any physical activities that your dog may be engaging in until then and keep track of any of the signs from above that you are noticing. If you’re in the Kingwood area, stop by King’s Crossing Animal Hospital and we can help your pet! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.