Dog Pain and Behavior: How to Identify the Signs and Take Action
Written by Lauren Tsao, MS, CDBC, CPDT-KA
Photo shows dog with ears pinned back.
As dog owners, we often take pride in our ability to understand our furry companions. We know when they’re hungry, tired, or ready to play. But when it comes to discomfort or pain, how well do we truly recognize the signs? Dogs are masters at masking their pain, a survival instinct inherited from their ancestors. This means that the subtle clues they provide can easily go unnoticed or misinterpreted as normal behavior, especially in older dogs or those with chronic conditions.
A recent study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior delves into this very issue, exploring how accurately dog owners can identify pain-related behavioral changes. The findings highlight the importance of paying close attention to even the smallest shifts in our dogs’ behavior and body language. Understanding these subtle cues isn’t just about improving our dogs’ quality of life; it’s about catching discomfort early, preventing further health complications, and strengthening the bond we share with our pets. This study serves as a reminder that every wag of a tail, every posture shift, and every behavioral change tells a story. It’s up to us to listen and act.
Understanding the Study: Evaluating Pain Recognition in Dogs
This study sought to explore how well dog owners can recognize pain-related behaviors in their pets. The researchers designed a survey to gather data from 124 participants, asking them to identify behavioral and postural changes that might signal discomfort. The survey focused on behaviors such as stiffness, reluctance to move, and changes in ear and tail positioning, which can often be linked to underlying pain or medical conditions.
Key Findings
One of the primary takeaways from the study was the identification of 13 our of 35 pain-related behaviors reported by owners. These behaviors ranged from subtle shifts, like a reduction in activity levels, to more apparent signs, such as excessive licking and hesitancy during movement. Among these, movement-based behaviors, such as a reluctance to walk and while transitioning between postures, stood out as the most commonly observed indicators of pain.
Interestingly, the study found that younger dogs exhibited more noticeable changes in behavior experiencing discomfort. This may be because their baseline activity levels are typically higher, making deviations more obvious to owners. Conversely, older dogs presented unique challenges for recognition, as their pain-related behaviors often mirrored the gradual decline expected with aging. For example, reduced energy or slower movements may be attributed to natural aging rather than an underlying issue, leading to a gap in awareness and delayed intervention.
The Importance of Recognizing Subtle Body Language
The study also highlighted the connection between pain and changes in body language, such as ear and tail positioning. These subtle cues are often overlooked, but can serve as critical indicators of discomfort. Dogs experiencing pain may hold their tails lower than usual, tuck them tightly against their bodies, or pin their ears back in situations where they would normally be relaxed. Recognizing these patterns can provide an early warning system for identifying pain, even before more pronounced symptoms develop.
A Gap in Awareness
While owner observations for some pain-related behaviors were reliable, the findings underscore a gap in understanding chronic pain in dogs, especially among older pets. Because many signs of pain develop gradually and overlap with natural aging processes, they can easily be misinterpreted or dismissed as a normal part of a dog’s life cycle. This highlights the need for better education and tools to help dog owners differentiate between aging-related changes and pain-induced behaviors.
By addressing this gap, owners can take proactive steps to seek veterinary care and implement pain management strategies, ultimately improving their dogs’ quality of life. The study serves as a reminder of the importance of paying close attention to behavioral and physical changes, no matter how small they may seem.
Recognizing Behaviors and Postures Associated with Pain
The study highlighted a variety of behaviors and postures that can signal pain in dogs, emphasizing the importance of early recognition for intervention and treatment. These changes often appear gradually and can be easy to overlook, but they provide important insights into a dog’s physical and emotional well-being.
Changes in Activity Levels
One of the clearest indicators of discomfort is a noticeable shift in a dog’s activity levels. Dogs experiencing pain may display reduced energy or a lack of enthusiasm for play and exercise. They might avoid activities they once enjoyed, such as fetching toys, chasing after a ball, or engaging in interactive games. Additionally, reluctance to perform physically demanding tasks like climbing stairs, jumping onto furniture, or even walking for extended periods is a common sign. Pain can also cause frequent pauses during walks or visible difficulty when turning, lying down, or getting up. These changes reflect how pain affects a dog’s mobility and overall energy.
Behavioral Shifts
Pain doesn’t just manifest physically, it also impacts a dog’s behavior. Dogs in discomfort may show delayed or muted responses when greeting their owners, which could be misinterpreted as aloofness or disinterest. They may become defensive or aggressive when specific body parts are touched, as the physical contact exacerbates their pain. Self-soothing behaviors such as excessive licking, biting, or scratching of certain areas can also indicate localized discomfort or irritation. These behaviors often appear repetitive and obsessive, signaling that something is amiss.
Physical Indicators
Postural changes are another key marker of pain. Dogs might exhibit stiffness while sitting or walking, or they may adopt abnormal postures, such as hunching their back or keeping their head lowered. Panting without physical exertion is another subtle, but significant indicator, as it often signals stress or discomfort. Pain can also alter the way a dog carries its tail or holds its ears. For instance, a dog that normally holds its tail high might carry it lower or tucked, while their ears may remain flattened or pinned back during activities that typically wouldn’t cause stress.
Subtle Emotional Changes
Emotional shifts often accompany physical discomfort. Dogs in pain might whine, cry, or vocalize more frequently, reflecting their frustration or distress. Some dogs become clingy, seeking constant reassurance from their owners, while others withdraw, avoiding interaction with people or other animals. These emotional changes can be subtle, but they provide important context for understanding a dog’s overall condition.
The Importance of Ear and Tail Positions
The study also underscored the significance of monitoring ear and tail positions in various situations, such as during physical activity or navigating challenging surfaces like slippery floors or stairs. Dogs experiencing pain often show a consistent lowering of their ears or tails or less tail wagging, which can signal discomfort even if more obvious behaviors are absent. Observing these subtle shifts can help owners identify pain early and seek appropriate care.
Understanding these behaviors and postures is important for dog owners, as they often provide the first clues that something is wrong. By staying attentive and informed, owners can take proactive steps to address their dog’s discomfort and improve their quality of life.
Why Early Recognition Matters
Recognizing pain in its early stages is critical for improving a dog’s quality of life and overall well-being. When chronic pain goes unnoticed or unaddressed, it can trigger a cascade of secondary issues, including anxiety, aggression, and social withdrawal. These behavioral changes not only affect the dog’s emotional state, but can also disrupt the harmony within the household. By learning to identify subtle signs of discomfort, such as changes in posture, activity levels, or interactions, owners can take proactive steps to address factors influencing their dog’s behavior.
Early intervention allows for timely veterinary care and the implementation of effective pain management strategies, preventing conditions from worsening over time. This not only reduces the risk of more severe health complications, but can also lead to significant cost savings by avoiding expensive treatments for advanced medical issues. Additionally, addressing pain promptly strengthens the bond between dog and owner. When a dog’s discomfort is better managed, their behavior often improves, leading to a happier, more engaged dog. By being vigilant and proactive, owners can ensure their dogs live healthier, more comfortable lives.
Challenges in Identifying Pain in Dogs
Recognizing pain in dogs is often a complex and challenging task, as highlighted in the study. Many dog owners, particularly those with older dogs, may misinterpret or overlook pain-related behaviors. One reason for this is that these behaviors can develop gradually over time, blending seamlessly with what many assume are normal signs of aging. For instance, a decrease in activity levels or stiffness while moving may be dismissed as typical for an older dog rather than a potential indicator of discomfort.
Compounding this difficulty is the fact that dogs are adept at masking their pain. This natural tendency means dogs may not exhibit obvious signs of distress, making it easy for subtle behavioral changes to go unnoticed. Even minor shifts, such as reduced tail wagging, slight hesitations when climbing stairs, or changes in ear positions, can go unrecognized as potential signs of pain.
These challenges highlight the importance of educating dog owners and providing them with tools to better identify pain-related behaviors. Without this knowledge, many cases of discomfort may go undiagnosed, delaying essential veterinary care and leading to more significant issues over time. By learning to recognize these subtle signs, owners can intervene early, improving their dog’s quality of life and preventing further complications.
What This Means for Dog Owners
This research serves as a reminder that our dogs rely on us to notice when something isn’t right. By being vigilant and understanding the behaviors associated with pain, owners can take steps to ensure their dogs live happy, healthy lives. Regular veterinary check-ups, combined with behavioral assessments, can help uncover issues early.
If you're unsure whether your dog might be in pain, consider:
Observing and documenting their daily behaviors.
Noting any changes in activity, posture, or interactions.
Consulting with a veterinarian or if your dog doesn’t allow for a typical hands-on exam or has already had an exam and you still believe there’s an issue, a certified Dynamic Dog Practitioner.
Photo shows a corgi running.
At Faithfully Yours Dog Training, we understand the complex relationship between pain and behavior. Our Behavior Guidance Calls with Dynamic Dog Assessments go beyond typical training consultations. By analyzing your dog’s gait, posture, and daily activities, we help uncover potential pain-related issues that could be influencing their behavior.
What We Offer:
Comprehensive behavior assessments.
Tailored training and behavior modification plans.
Detailed reports to help your veterinarian to address underlying physical concerns.
Don’t wait for pain to escalate. Early intervention can make all the difference for your dog’s well-being. Contact us today to schedule a Behavior Guidance Call and give your dog the care they deserve. Together, we can help your dog live a happier, more comfortable life.
Disclaimer: I am a professional dog trainer and certified dog behavior consultant, but I am not a veterinarian. The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian regarding any medical concerns you may have about your dog’s health. If you suspect your dog is in pain or experiencing discomfort, seek the guidance of a licensed veterinary professional for proper assessment and treatment. Never disregard or delay seeking veterinary advice.
