Is My Dog in Pain?

Recognizing when our dogs are in pain isn’t always easy. Dogs often have a natural instinct to hide discomfort, and their eagerness to please can sometimes lead them to push through activities they love—like chasing a ball or going for a run—even when they're hurting. Plus, the way dogs show pain can be very different from what we might expect based on our own experiences.

Chronic v.s. Acute Pain

When it comes to pain in dogs, there are two main types: acute and chronic.

• Acute pain happens suddenly, usually from an injury like a wound or trauma, and is expected to improve as the injury heals.
• Chronic pain, on the other hand, is more long-term. It’s severe and persistent enough to become a condition that requires ongoing management, like arthritis.

Using Canine Pain Scales

To assess how much discomfort your dog is in, a dog pain scale can be a useful tool. For example, the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) provides a checklist to help recognize signs of pain. While these tools and pain scales are helpful, they’re often complex and best used by professionals. For pet owners, it’s important to observe your dog’s behavior and recognize potential signs of pain, such as:

• Standing in one place without lying down
• Repeatedly doing a “play bow” without actually playing
• Pacing and refusing to lie down
• Changes in behavior like hiding, aggression, or losing interest in favorite activities
• Vocalizing or groaning when being moved or touched

Assessing Your Dog’s Pain

It’s important to stay calm when you suspect your dog is in pain, as dogs can sense our anxiety, which may worsen their discomfort. You don’t need special tools—just careful observation. Avoid palpating an area, as this is best left to professionals and could provoke more pain. Watch for unusual behaviors like trembling, lethargy, or changes in posture. If you notice an obvious injury, such as a cut or squinting eyes, avoid handling the area to prevent further pain or aggression.

What to Do Next

If you suspect your dog has mild pain—like a limp but they’re still eating and moving—schedule a vet visit or consider urgent care. If your dog’s symptoms worsen, such as hiding, refusing food, vocalizing with movement, or avoiding walking, it’s best to seek emergency care. Severe pain needs to be addressed quickly to prevent complications.

How Pain in Dogs Is Treated

• Acute pain: This type of pain is typically treated with medications, both injectable and oral, to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
• Chronic pain: Managing chronic pain often involves a combination of medications and therapies like acupuncture, physiotherapy, and even environmental changes to improve your dog’s quality of life.

When Pain Becomes Unbearable

If your dog’s pain becomes too much, consult your veterinarian to identify the cause and explore treatment options. In urgent cases, visiting an emergency hospital is crucial. If pain persists despite treatment, a veterinary pain management professional can offer additional solutions.

Understanding and managing pain in dogs requires vigilance and prompt action. By recognizing the signs, pet parents can help ensure their canine companions receive the care they need for a better quality of life.