Our dogs are experts at hiding pain. In the wild, showing weakness could make them vulnerable, so even today, many pets suffer quietly. As dog owners, it’s important to watch for the subtle signs that something isn’t quite right. Recognizing pain early can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort, recovery, and long-term health.
Here are some of the most common signs that may indicate your dog is in pain:
1. Avoiding Stairs or Difficulty with Mobility
If your dog used to bound up the stairs but now hesitates or avoids them completely, it may be a sign of joint or muscle pain. Trouble getting in and out of the car, onto the couch, or up stairs often points to discomfort in the hips, knees, or back.
2. Decreased Activity or Energy
A sudden slowdown in activity isn’t always just “getting older.” Dogs experiencing pain often become less active because movement hurts. If your once energetic companion now prefers to lie around, it’s worth paying attention.
3. Decreased Appetite
Pain, especially dental pain or abdominal discomfort, can cause dogs to eat less or avoid food entirely. Skipping meals or showing less enthusiasm at mealtimes is a red flag.
4. Reluctance to Jump
Jumping is a high-impact activity that can be very uncomfortable for a dog in pain. If your dog no longer wants to jump into the car, onto the bed, or off a step, it may be their way of protecting themselves from discomfort.
5. Difficulty Standing After Lying Down
Stiffness when rising is another common sign, particularly in dogs with arthritis or joint pain. They may take longer to stand, walk stiffly at first, or need extra time to “warm up.”
6. Over-Grooming or Licking One Area
Dogs often lick, chew, or over-groom a spot on their body when it hurts. Persistent licking of joints, paws, or one side of the body may point to pain, irritation, or even an internal issue.
What to Do if You Notice These Signs
If your dog is showing one or more of these behaviours, don’t ignore them. Keep a journal of what you notice, including when it happens and how severe it seems, then share this with your veterinarian. A professional exam and diagnostics can help uncover the cause, whether it’s arthritis, an injury, dental disease, or something else.
Early intervention not only helps your dog feel better but can also prevent minor issues from becoming major health problems.
You know your dog best, and even small changes in behaviour can signal something more serious. Paying attention to these signs of pain can help you catch issues early and make sure your dog gets the care they need. After all, our dogs give us so much—helping them live pain-free is one of the best ways we can give back.