All pet owners find it terrible when their dog is sick or in pain. While there are many obvious signs that show 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’s important to watch their behaviors, especially if you suspect they’re sick.
Here are 5 symptoms of dog pain that all pet owners should be aware of:
heavy panting
Panting is normal behavior for canines. Loud panting shouldn’t come as a surprise either, especially on hot days. But if your pet is panting a lot out of the blue, this may indicate that he is stressed or in pain.
Lack of appetite
Loss of appetite is often the first noticeable symptom when a dog is in pain or feeling ill. Just like us, we lose our appetite when we don’t feel well. Lack of appetite in canines can be due to many reasons but if it persists, it is best to consult your veterinarian to find out the cause.
excessive grooming
While it is natural for dogs to groom themselves by licking, it is not normal for it to turn into an obsessive behavior. If you notice your dog licking a particular area of his body for prolonged periods, it could indicate that he is in pain. Canines often groom parts of their body where the pain is coming from in hopes of soothing or caring for the wound.
Shy or Aggressive
A dog in pain will usually hide in a corner and avoid being paid attention to because he doesn’t have the energy to play or socialize. On the other hand, other dogs that experience pain tend to become aggressive, especially when touched. Don’t take it personally if your usual sweet and lively dog growls or yells at you when you try to play with him; he simply has no other means of letting you know that he is suffering.
General changes in behavior
If your dog no longer greets you excitedly when you arrive, if he doesn’t want to play with his favorite toy, or if he refuses to do any physical activity like his daily walks or just going upstairs, chances are he’s in a rage or feeling sick. Take him to the vet for a checkup, especially if the problem persists.
If you notice any of the above dog pain signs or symptoms in your pet, it’s best to seek medical help to ensure the problem is resolved immediately.