Signs That Your Pooch is in Pain

Dogs Show Their Pain in a Variety of Ways

Wild and domestic animals show pain in a variety of ways. Their inability to communicate does not in any way diminish their potential to experience hurtful and unpleasant stimuli.

Be watchful for subtle tips that your dog is feeling pain.The most obvious signs of pain in dogs include anxiety, agitation, vocalization, trembling, restlessness, and increased breathing rate. More subtle signs include increased heart rate, reduced appetite, depression, and reluctance to move.

Signs of pain and distress can vary tremendously among individuals, depending on an animal's experience, age, and environment. Some dogs have an amazing pain threshold; others are just as sensitive as the wimpiest human. But make no mistake: Dogs both experience pain and show the signs of pain.

Sadly, veterinary patients are unable to directly convey their feelings of pain. Therefore, identifying pain in canine patients is an important and sometimes difficult diagnosis. Treatment and therapy must aim to relieve the pain or at least make it tolerable.

The original version of this article was published in AKC Family Dog.