Most dogs have evolved to hide signs of pain because it could make them vulnerable to attack by rival dogs.Some dogs communicate that they are in pain, others don't and that makes determination difficult.Dogs hide their pain as a natural survival mechanism.There are a lot of ways to determine if your dog is in pain.You can seek help if you make this determination sooner.Minor problems can be kept from turning into major ones.
Step 1: It's a good idea to watch for limping.
A limping is one of the most obvious signs of pain.It hurts to put weight on a leg.They are less likely to use a leg if it is causing pain.Dogs in pain are less likely to move around.
Step 2: There are other mobility issues to keep an eye out for.
There may be other mobility changes.Your dog may not be able to get up or down.It could show a reluctance to do certain activities or move more slowly than usual.It can be a sign of pain if you don't go up or down stairs.
Step 3: There are changes in posture.
Take a look at the position that your dog holds.A hanging or tucked tail in a dog that normally has an active tail can be evidence of pain.It could be a sign that your dog is in pain.Pain can cause your dog to be very stiff when standing or moving.
Step 4: Take a look at your dog's breathing.
If your dog is in pain, you can see an increase in their respiratory rate.A dog that pants persistently may be in pain.
Step 5: Take a look at your dog's eyes.
Your dog's eyes can tell you a lot about pain.You can see redness, cloudiness, and squinting if there is pain in the eye area.Your dog may be rubbing the area that hurts.If your dog rubs its eyes frequently, this could be a sign of irritation.The eyes can show you pain in other areas.Squinting can be a sign of pain in the eye area, but some dogs will also squint.Ailated pupils are a sign that your dog is in pain.
Step 6: Don't bite.
A dog's behavior can be changed by pain.A dog in pain is more likely to bite.A dog that has never bitten before may bite if it is in pain.If you move a painful area, a dog in pain may bite you.When a painful area is touched, the natural response is to move toward that area.The dog may try to bite someone.growling is a warning sign you may first see.A dog on the verge of biting can show its teeth or pin its ears back.This is a natural protection mechanism that a dog can use.
Step 7: Your dog's eating.
A dog in pain is less likely to eat.A decreased appetite may be a sign of pain or illness.It's important to take it to the vet immediately to rule out a serious issue.A dog with pain in its mouth may drop food.If the vet doesn't find anything wrong, try replacing their food with a new bag.The high fat content in dog food can cause it to spoil.
Step 8: There are signs of unhappiness.
A dog in pain may not be comfortable.Your dog may show this by getting up and down frequently.
Step 9: Look for sleep changes.
Changes in the dog's sleep schedule can be caused by pain.A dog with pain may sleep more than usual.
Step 10: There are changes in the dog's vocalization.
Unusual vocalizations can be signs of pain.These sounds can be associated with certain movements.That can show you the nature of the pain.A vocal dog can suddenly become quiet.
Step 11: There are avoidance behaviors that you should look for.
When a dog is in pain, hiding or shying away from people or other animals is a common avoidance behavior.Efforts are made to avoid painful situations.If your dog moves its head away when you try to pet it, this is a sign that it is in pain.If your dog likes being touched, take note.A dog that is less interactive and withdrawn can go along with these behaviors.If your dog is experiencing pain, you may notice an attitude of depression or mental dullness.Some dogs may seek more attention if they are in pain.You should be aware of either avoidance or high levels of attention-seeking behaviors.
Step 12: Pay attention to your dog's behavior.
Being aware of your dog's bathroom habits can help you recognize problems.When a dog is in pain, it may exhibit a different posture when it urinates or defecates.A male dog that normally lifts his leg to urinate might not.The amount of time your dog needs to do its business may change.If it is hard for your dog to get to the area they usually go, they may have accidents.Stress and pain can affect the consistency of a dog's stool.It can lead to other problems.