How Do I Tell if my Dog is in Pain?
Dogs are masters at hiding pain. They have a strong instinct to protect themselves and boundless enthusiasm for the activities they love. Combined with an innate desire to please us and stay with us at all costs, this can make it challenging to spot their subtle pain indicators. Particularly when they develop slowly.
THE GOOD NEWS IS…Its never too late to help your dog, you can seek the help of a Veterinary Physiotherapist today. We can complete assessment and treatment, and help you implement simple changes to your dog’s routine to help them live a better life.
Check the list of pain signs below to see if your dog is comfortable.
Pain Signs in Dogs
Movement Signs
Limping
Skipping
Head nodding when walking
Struggles to walk and trots instead
Loss of performance in working and sports
Shortened stride/ Stumbling
Struggles to squat to toilet
Postural signs
Head down posture
Hind limbs tucked under
Flexed Lumbar spine
Sloppy uneven sit/ uncontrolled to lay down
Visual signs
Coat flicks or changes
Changes in body shape ( due to muscle wastage and compensations)
Splayed feet
Discoloured fur or sores from licking and chewing
Facial tension
Behavioural Signs
Increasingly clingy or withdrawn
More reactive to other dogs or people
Noise sensitivity
Excessive licking and chewing one area
Restlessness
Increased whining or barking
Reluctance to obey known commands, ie sit
Stops playing with toys or friends
Decreased appetite
Resentment to grooming or touch
Air snapping behind them randomly
Panting at rest if not hot
Reduced enthusiasm for daily walk
Hiding
If you are concerned your dog may be in pain...
We offer a free ten minute telephone consult to discuss the appropriate pathway and plan for your dog.
Just complete the booking form here and we will contact you ASAP to book a convenient time for you.