No Products in the Cart
Written by: Sarah Seward-Langdon
Published on: 11/25/2024
As dog owners, we’d do anything to keep our four-legged family members happy and comfortable. But sometimes, even with the best care, our pups can experience discomfort or pain, and they can’t exactly tell us what's wrong.
So, how can you make sure your dog is feeling their best? Since dogs have their own unique ways of signalling when they’re not feeling well, knowing how to tell if your dog is in pain is an important part of being a dog owner.
Recognizing the signs a dog is in pain can be surprisingly subtle, and it changes based on the breed, age, and personality of your dog. Some dogs might become quiet or keep to themselves, while others might show more obvious signs like limping or excessive licking.
It’s our responsibility as pet parents to understand these cues so we know when our dogs need a bit of extra attention or even a trip to the vet. If you’re able to recognize these signs, it empowers you to respond quickly and help them feel better.
Let’s explore the subtle cues and behaviours that could signal discomfort, so you can be there for your dog when they need you most.
Dogs can’t tell us directly when they’re hurting, so they rely on physical and behavioural cues to show discomfort. Knowing how to tell if your dog is in pain means watching for these changes, which can be easy to miss if you’re not sure what to look for.
Some signs are obvious, like limping or whining, but dogs also show what’s known as silent pain [1]. This type of pain doesn’t always come with clear symptoms. You might notice subtle shifts, like hiding, becoming unusually quiet, or acting more irritable than usual—small signs that let you know something’s off.
Let’s go into detail about both physical and behavioural signs your dog may be in pain:
Physical changes are often the clearest clues that something’s up with your dog. Here are a few to watch out for:
If your dog is limping or stiff they may be uncomfortable. This might be from an injury, joint pain, or even something like a sore paw pad. If you see your dog favouring one leg, it could be a sign they’re dealing with some pain [2].
If your dog doesn’t want to jump on the couch, climb stairs, or get into their usual comfy spot, they could be avoiding painful movements. Slower or more careful movements might also be a sign they’re not feeling their best [2].
Dogs tend to lick or chew an area that’s bothering them. This could be due to a wound, sore muscles, or joint pain. If they’re focusing a lot on one spot, it might mean something’s hurting there [3].
Changes in how your dog stands, sits, or lies down can hint at them being in pain as well. You might notice them tucking their tail, arching their back, or sitting in a more hunched position. These small shifts can signal they’re uncomfortable [2].
If your dog pants when it hasn’t been active or if its breathing seems quick and shallow, this can sometimes be an indicator of pain. Discomfort can make it hard for the dog to relax fully [2].
Watching for these signs, along with changes in behaviour, can help you figure out when your dog might need a little extra care.
Just like physical signs, your dog’s behaviour can change when they're in pain. Dogs can be quite good at hiding discomfort, but their actions and mood can shift if they’re hurting.
Here are some possible behavioural changes to watch for:
If your dog starts whining, growling, or even howling more than usual, it could be a sign they’re in pain. Some dogs are quieter, but if your dog is suddenly more vocal, especially when moving or being touched, it’s worth paying attention to [3].
Pain can make your dog act a little off. They might become more withdrawn, hiding in their favourite spot or staying away from people. Alternatively, they could get extra clingy, seeking out attention because they’re feeling vulnerable.
These behaviour shifts are important dog pain symptoms to watch for—something might be bothering them [3].
If your usually sweet dog is snapping, growling, or showing signs of irritability, pain could definitely be a cause. Sometimes, when a dog is in pain, they can be more easily annoyed or even snap when touched, especially in sensitive areas [3].
Pain and discomfort can mess with your dog’s ability to relax. If your dog can’t seem to settle down or is pacing around a lot, it could mean they’re uncomfortable.
You might also see them shifting positions repeatedly, trying to find comfort but not quite succeeding. These are common pain indicators in dogs that you won’t want to ignore [3].
That being said, if your dog is naturally restless and likes to follow you around the house normally, this sign may not be as relevant for you.
When your dog is in pain, they might lose interest in things they usually enjoy—like walks, playtime, or their favourite toys. If your dog suddenly isn’t up for their usual activities, it’s a sign that something’s off. This is especially true if they’re usually active but are now taking it easy.
If you notice any of these changes, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet. Sometimes, behavioural shifts are subtle, but they can tell you a lot about your dog’s health.
Pain in dogs can happen for many different reasons. It can be caused by something recent, like an injury, or by conditions that have developed over time, like arthritis. Understanding the cause of pain can help you figure out the best way to help your dog feel better. Here are some common causes of pain in dogs:
Dental problems, such as gum disease or tooth infections, can cause your dog a lot of discomfort. If your dog has bad breath, drools excessively, or stops eating, pain or discomfort from dental issues could be the cause [3].
UTIs can be painful and cause your dog to strain or have accidents in the house. They may also whine or seem uncomfortable when trying to urinate [3].
Severe stomach upset, such as from eating something toxic or gastrointestinal issues, can make your dog feel miserable and cause it to act restless or withdrawn [3].
A sudden injury or fall can cause pain, like a sprained leg or broken bone. This is typically acute pain that happens quickly [3].
As dogs get older, they can develop arthritis, which can cause chronic pain. Joint pain often results in stiffness or difficulty moving [3].
Dogs recovering from surgery often experience pain, especially in the first few days after the procedure. It’s normal for them to be more sensitive during this time [3].
Knowing what might be causing your dog pain is key to understanding how to manage it. Whether it's a sudden injury, an ongoing condition like arthritis, or something else, the next step is figuring out how to help your dog feel more comfortable.
While some pain can be managed at home, others may need more specific care. The most important thing is to stay proactive and responsive to your dog’s needs.
✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
Seeing your dog in pain can be tough, but there are steps you can take to help them feel better. First, don’t panic—there’s a lot that can be done. The sooner you know the cause, the sooner you can get your dog on the road to recovery. In the meantime, cut back on their physical activities and try to keep them comfortable.
If you think your dog is in pain, the first thing you’ll want to do is book a vet appointment. The vet can help figure out what’s going on and recommend the best way to help. If your dog seems to be in a lot of pain, or if it comes on suddenly, don’t wait—get them to an emergency vet.
Expect your vet to perform a physical exam and maybe run a few tests, such as X-rays or blood work, to determine the cause.
While you’re waiting to see the vet, try to cut back on your dog’s physical activities. If your dog is limping or acting like they’re in pain when moving, don’t push them to go on that long walk or jump on the couch. Try shorter walks, or use a ramp to get them in and out of the car or up onto the furniture.
Little changes like raising their food or water dishes can also make things easier for them. These might just be temporary adjustments, but they’ll help keep your dog comfortable while you figure out what’s going on.
It’s easy to forget exactly what’s been happening with your dog when you get to the vet. That’s why it can help to keep track of their symptoms at home.
Try snapping a picture or taking a short video when you notice pain signs like limping, whining, or any odd behaviour. Write down what was going on at the time—what they were doing, when it happened, etc. This can give your vet a clearer picture of what’s really going on and help them figure out the best way to treat it.
Once you’ve figured out what’s causing your dog’s pain, it’s time to talk about treatment options. There’s a lot you can do to help, from medications and surgery to things like acupuncture or physical therapy.
Your vet might suggest different treatments depending on your dog’s condition. Whether it’s medications, laser therapy, or even supplements, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so work with your vet to figure out the best plan.
Taking these steps will help your dog feel better and start recovering. It might take some time, but sticking with it will make a big difference in their comfort and recovery.
Once you’ve seen the vet and have a clear understanding of what’s going on, managing your dog’s pain at home becomes a team effort. With the right care, you can make a big difference in how your dog feels.
Your vet will probably give you a treatment plan tailored to your dog’s condition; it’s important you stick to it. Whether it’s giving them medication, following up with physical therapy, or applying heat or cold packs, consistency is key. If you’re ever unsure about the instructions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet.
Pain often makes it harder for dogs to get comfy. Set up a cozy, quiet spot for your dog to rest, away from the noise and activity of the household. A soft bed or blanket can help relieve pressure on joints and bones.
If your dog is older or dealing with arthritis, consider raising their food and water bowls to a more comfortable height to avoid strain.
Monitor your dog closely for any changes. If their pain worsens, or they seem to be getting more uncomfortable, contact your vet. Keep track of how much they’re eating, drinking, and sleeping. If you notice any changes in behaviour or new symptoms, jot them down so you can discuss them with a professional.
Some supplements, like glucosamine, omega-packed oils, and chondroitin, can help support joint health and relieve pain, especially in older dogs. Check with your vet to see if these are a good fit for your dog’s condition, and never give them without consulting your vet first.
Learn more about the omega-packed camelina oil to help your dog.
At the end of the day, making sure your dog is comfortable and healthy is what matters most. Whether you notice physical signs of pain or changes in their behaviour, being aware of those signs is key to catching issues early.
Once you know what’s going on, follow your vet’s advice on treatment and make sure your dog has a comfortable place to rest. Keep an eye on their pain levels and be ready to adjust as needed—sometimes it’s as simple as cutting back on activity or using heat or cold therapy. And don’t forget to check in with your vet if anything seems off.
The more in tune you are with your dog’s needs, the better you'll be at helping them feel better.
✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
"Sarah is a marketing specialist with a passion for anything creative! Her openness to working across industries and job opportunities has allowed her to gain enormous amounts of experience in graphic design, video production, and written content creation. Animals have a special place in her heart as she grew up with cats and now owns her own Alaskan Malamute. She has spent the last couple of years in Vancouver working with different companies within the pet industry and gained valuable knowledge about the ins and outs of the (alternative) pet food industry, supplementation, and various training methods. When she’s not digitally creating content for pet lovers to consume, she’s out eating great food, dancing at drop-in classes, or exploring the beautiful Canadian scenery with her fur-child Miso."
