Recognising the signs of pain in your dog is essential so you can seek veterinary advice and start appropriate treatment as early as possible.
Pain can seriously affect your dog’s quality of life if it’s left untreated. Some signs are obvious, but others can be subtle. By paying close attention to changes in your dog’s behaviour and physical condition, you can help spot problems early.
If you think your dog may be in pain, contact your vet as soon as possible. Never give your dog human painkillers, as many are extremely dangerous for pets.
Pain in dogs usually shows itself in two main ways: behavioural changes and physical symptoms.
You know your dog best, so even small changes can be significant. Behavioural signs of pain may include:
Physical signs of pain may be easier to notice, particularly in dogs that are usually active. These can include:
Acute pain comes on suddenly and is usually short-term. It often improves within a few days and may be caused by an injury or illness.
Chronic pain is ongoing and can interfere with your dog’s daily life. It’s commonly caused by conditions such as arthritis or dental disease and is more common in older dogs.
If your dog shows signs of pain, contact your vet as soon as you can. Your vet will ask about the changes you’ve noticed and examine your dog to identify the cause.
Further tests, such as X-rays or blood tests, may be needed. Your vet may prescribe pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication and discuss a management plan.
Alongside veterinary treatment, your vet may recommend changes at home to keep your dog comfortable, such as:
Pain can change or worsen over time. Contact your vet if your dog’s symptoms get worse or if their medication no longer seems effective. If pain is severe and cannot be controlled, your vet can help you discuss your dog’s quality of life and any difficult decisions you may have to make.
Mouth pain can make eating uncomfortable and may quickly affect your dog’s wellbeing. Checking your dog’s mouth regularly can help catch problems early.
Signs of mouth pain
Possible causes
Contact your vet as soon as you notice signs of mouth pain so the cause can be identified and treated.
Eye pain is often obvious and should always be treated as urgent.
Signs of eye pain
Common causes
When to contact your vet
Contact your vet immediately if your dog is blinking excessively, holding an eye closed, or showing signs of severe pain. Eye problems can worsen quickly if left untreated.
