Drastic changes in your dog's behavior, such as sudden aggression or avoidance of interaction, are strong indicators of discomfort. Dogs in pain may become irritable and lash out or withdraw to cope with their distress.
Alterations in your dog's eating, drinking, or sleeping patterns are telltale signs of potential pain. Whether it's a loss of appetite, increased thirst, or excessive sleeping, these changes should prompt investigation.
Dogs often become more vocal when they are in pain. You might notice increased whining, growling, snarling, or howling. Pay attention to when these vocalizations occur, as they can provide clues about the source of discomfort.
Excessive licking or biting, especially in a specific area, suggests your dog is attempting to alleviate discomfort. Dogs instinctively groom painful areas to clean and soothe them.
Panting when your dog hasn't exerted themselves can be a sign of pain or discomfort. Shallow breathing or altered breathing patterns may also indicate that your dog is struggling with pain.
Limping, stiffness, weakness, or reluctance to move are obvious signs of pain. Joint pain, which is common in older dogs, can significantly restrict mobility and should be addressed promptly.
Unusual restlessness, such as pacing, constant position changes, or the inability to settle down, can be a sign of underlying pain. Dogs may appear agitated when they can't find a comfortable position due to discomfort.
Physical changes like swelling, lumps, or unusual body posture can be warning signs of pain. If you notice anything different in your dog's body or posture, investigate further.
Shivering or trembling, especially in specific situations or positions, can be indicative of pain. Muscle tremors, in particular, may signal poisoning or severe discomfort.
A dog's eyes can reveal a lot about their well-being. Watch for signs such as increased squinting, redness, cloudiness, dilated pupils, or eye discharge. These visual changes can signal underlying pain or illness.
Kia Seltos 2023