5 symptoms of pain in dogs that every pet owner should watch out for
Every pet owner finds it awful when their dog is sick or in pain. Although there are many obvious signs that indicate this, keep in mind that dogs don’t speak our language and can’t always tell us when they’re not feeling well. Dogs communicate with humans primarily through actions, so it is important to be observant of their behavior, especially if you suspect they are ill.
Here are 5 symptoms of canine pain that every pet owner should watch out for:
Heavy breathing
Panting is a normal behavior for dogs. Severe shortness of breath should also come as no surprise, especially on hot days. But if your pet becomes extremely bloated out of nowhere, it could mean he’s stressed or in pain.
Lack of appetite
A lack of appetite is usually the first obvious symptom when a dog is in pain or unwell. Just like us, we lose our appetite when we’re not feeling well. Lack of appetite in dogs can be caused by many reasons, but if it persists, it is better to consult your veterinarian to find out the reason.
Excessive styling
Although it is natural for dogs to groom themselves by licking, it is not normal for this to become a compulsive behavior. If you notice that your puppy licks a certain part of its body for extended periods, it could mean that it is in pain. Canines often clean parts of their body where the pain is coming from in hopes of soothing or tending to the wound.
Shyness or aggression
A dog in pain usually hides in a corner and avoids attention because it has no energy to play or socialize. On the other hand, other dogs in pain have a tendency to become aggressive, especially when touched. Don’t take it personally if your normally sweet and lively dog growls or snaps at you when you try to play with him – he simply has no other way of letting you know he’s in pain.
General changes in behavior
If your dog no longer greets you excitedly when you arrive, if he refuses to play with his favorite toy, or if he refuses any physical activities like his daily walks or just climbing the stairs, he is most likely in pain or nausea. Take him to the vet to be examined, especially if the problem persists.
If you notice any of the aforementioned signs or symptoms of canine pain in your pet, it is best to seek medical attention to ensure the problem is resolved immediately.
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