Your dog can’t say “ouch” but their body language can speak volumes. Dogs are also masters at hiding pain, but this list proves that they still leave hints. These 10 signs will help you spot discomfort even before they turn into a bigger issue.
10. Reluctance to Be Touched
If your pup pulls away from petting or flinches when being touched, they may be guarding a painful area. This is common with joint issues, back pain, and soft tissue injuries. When this happens, avoid touching the sensitive area, use harness instead of lifting (if needed), and book a vet appointment.
9. Changes in Sleeping Patterns
Dogs in pain may sleep less because they can’t settle comfortably or sleep more due to discomfort. You might notice frequent repositioning, sleeping in odd spots, or pacing at night. If sleep disturbances continue, note changes in patterns and consult your vet.
8. Shaking or Trembling
Dogs shake from anxiety or cold, but there’s also what we call unexplained trembling. This could indicate injury, poisoning, or internal pain. It’s often paired with drooling, lethargy, or vomiting. If the trembling is new and combined with other symptoms, seek emergency care. Otherwise, keep your dog calm and warm, and avoid human pain meds.
7. Tucked Tail
A tucked tail, hunched back, or head held low can all be signs of discomfort. Dogs with abdominal pain may adopt a “prayer position” (rear end up, front legs down) and appear bloated. If you see them this way, don’t manipulate their position, limit activity, and take them to the vet.
6. Aggression or Withdrawal
There are dogs that are normally sweet, so when they suddenly growl when touched or hide from family, it could be a sign they’re hurting. Pain causes antisocial behavior or irritability, especially in senior dogs or those with chronic conditions. What you can do is give them space and avoid handling until assessed.
5. Licking a Specific Area
Over-grooming a paw, leg, or belly might signal internal pain, joint inflammation, or nerve issues. That’s because dogs often lick, guard, or chew painful spots even if there’s no visible injury. To prevent excessive licking, you may use a cone or clothing barrier. If the behavior persists, schedule a vet visit.
4. Unusual Vocalizations
One of the obvious ways that dogs tell us when they’re in pain is by whimpering when touched or moved. Unusual vocalizations may also include groaning, whining, yelping, and even grumbling. However, note that some dogs become unusually quiet when in pain. Know what’s normal for your pup and watch out for changes in vocalization.
3. Excessive Panting or Shallow Breathing
Panting is normal after play, but if it occurs even at rest or seems excessive, it may be a sign of pain or discomfort. Usually, this symptom is paired with restlessness. Dogs in pain may also have a shallow breathing to avoid aggravating sore areas. If breathing is labored and combined with lethargy, seek care immediately
2. Changes in Appetite
When in pain, your dog may refuse food, drop kibble from their mouth, or chew more slowly. Common culprits include dental issues like broken teeth, jaw pain, and abscesses. It’s also worth noting that pain elsewhere (like in the abdomen or back) can also suppress appetite.
1. Sudden Changes in Mobility
If your dog starts to struggle in getting up or hesitates to jump onto the furniture they usually love, it could be a sign of injury, arthritis, or joint pain. Large breeds and senior dogs are especially prone to mobility-related issues. Meanwhile, sudden lameness may indicate injury. As always, consult your vet when this happens and monitor for other symptoms.