Spotting Pain in Dogs – Weird things dogs do when in pain

Did you know that a whopping 80% of ‘bad’ dog behaviour is caused or made worse by pain?

Because dogs can’t tell us they feel pain – many are often experiencing a degree of pain which makes their behaviours worse. And sometimes the way they show that can be really odd – such as eating grass, fly snapping at nothing in the air, or aggressive outbursts.

Sometimes, our dogs exhibit behaviours that can be frustrating, confusing, or even scary. We might label them as “reactive,” “aggressive,” or simply “badly behaved.” However, it’s crucial to understand that these behaviours could be a cry for help, a sign that our beloved companions are suffering from hidden pain.

And it’s cruel to try and train a dog not to show these behaviours if the root cause is pain. Imagine being told off for being grumpy about severe toothache. It’s the same thing!

Pain Changes Everything

Pain doesn’t just mean limping or whimpering. Dogs are masters at hiding discomfort, and often, behavioural changes are their only way of communicating their pain. By the time the dog is visibly limping, then the pain is pretty bad. This pain can stem from various sources, including:

• Musculoskeletal Issues: Arthritis, hip dysplasia, back pain, and old injuries are common culprits.
• Dental Disease: Toothaches can make dogs irritable and head shy.
• Gastrointestinal Problems: Conditions like gastritis and pancreatitis can cause discomfort and lead to behavioural changes.
• Ear Infections: The pain and pressure from ear infections can lead to head shaking, scratching, and even aggressive outbursts if touched near the ears or head.

How do dogs show they might be in pain without limping or whining?

• Growling or snapping when disturbed if sleeping or resting.
• Growling when someone approaches them if they’re lay on the sofa, or leans on them for a cuddle etc.
• Snapping at other dogs if they sniff a sore area like their back legs or paws.
• Snapping when other dogs approach if worried about other dogs knocking into them.
• Pulling frantically on lead (can actually be a way to alleviate pain by pushing/pulling more).
• Being hyperactive and unable to settle or keeps getting up to change position.
• Less keen to get involved in activities they usually love doing like playing.
• Eating things they shouldn’t such as stones, grass or unusual items (can be a sign of tummy issues).

Other Behavioural Clues: Recognizing the Signs

Reactivity and aggression aren’t the only ways pain can affect behaviour. Here are other red flags to watch out for:

• Changes in Activity Level: A once-energetic dog might become reluctant to play, go for walks, or even climb stairs.
• Increased Vocalization: Whining, groaning, or barking more than usual can be signs of pain, especially when lying down or getting up.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns: Restlessness, pacing at night, or difficulty settling down could indicate discomfort.
• Excessive Licking or Chewing: While often associated with anxiety, obsessive licking or chewing, particularly at a specific area, might signal pain.
• Changes in Social Interaction: A dog in pain might become clingy and seek constant attention or even become hyperactive and keep getting up to move, or they might withdraw and avoid interaction with family members.

Advocating for Your Dog: What You Can Do

If you suspect your dog’s behaviour is rooted in pain, it’s crucial to talk to your vet. Dogs are experts at acting super normal and happy when they reach the vet waiting room, so here are some tips to get the most out of your visit:

• Provide a Detailed History: Be prepared to describe your dog’s behaviour in detail, including when it started, how often it occurs, and any potential triggers.
• Don’t Downplay Subtle Signs: Even if your veterinarian doesn’t immediately notice anything amiss, don’t hesitate to voice your concerns and insist on a thorough examination. Let them know about any odd behaviours – like if your dog is a messy drinker, or has runny poos.
• Take videos: Videos of your dogs moving in a more relaxed environment than the vet surgery can be really helpful for vets to diagnose a problem.

Remember, addressing pain isn’t just about managing symptoms; it’s about improving your dog’s overall quality of life.

And we owe it to our dogs to not try and train out a behaviour, if the reason is actually pain.