Signs of pain in dogs part II

In my previous story, I discussed 8 symptoms of pain in dogs. Here are the remaining ones.

Hard to know

It is very hard to understand when a dog is in pain since they try to keep their pain in check

In my previous story, I discussed 8 signs that your dog is in pain. In this web story, you will learn about the remaining signs.

Signs of pain in dogs

Here are 9 signs that your dog might be in pain.

Swipe to know the remaining signs of pain in dogs

9. Swelling

Swelling in your dog's body

If you observe swelling in the face, legs or paws, It could be an indication that your dog is in pain caused by an infection, inflammation or cancer.

10. Changes in posture

You may observe sudden changes in your dog's posture if he/she is pain

Some dogs go into a rigid stance while others generally assume prayer position with front legs touching the ground and bottom in the air. Your dog will most often take the prayer position in case he or she is suffering from abdominal pain.

11. Reluctance to walk on slippery surfaces.

Normally dogs will not bother whether the floor is slippery or dry

Some dogs even love to get into every puddle they see on the road during their walks. However, reluctance to walk on slippery zones is a sign, the dog is in pain.

12. Reduced mobility

Reluctance to get up, play or engage with other dogs or humans

If your dog is in pain due to sore paws, injury or arthritis, he or she may exhibit signs of stiffness and limp. Your dog might be slow in getting up or show reluctance in climbing stairs.

13. Placing body weight on front legs

Pain in hip or back legs makes it difficult for the dog to place the weight on front legs.

In such case, you will notice that the pup tries to manage the body weight on the front legs. This is called as the forward leaning stance. In this case, the dog angles the front leg in the way that it is tucked under the chest to support the weight of the chest.

14. Seeking/disregarding affection

Every dog responds to pain differently

Some may prefer to be left alone or hide while others may constantly want affection and cuddles.

15. Accidents around the house

Your dog may start defecating in the house

If you notice sudden changes like defecating in the house, licking the urine, trying to eat the poop, take him or her to the vet. Mostly observed in geriatric dogs

16. Difficulty in resting

It is hard to stay in one position when in pain


  • sitting or laying in an unusual position
  • difficulty in maintaining one posture for a certain period of time
  • whimpering when laying down or sitting

17. Eye changes

frequent squinting.


  • In case of eye problem, you will observe frequent squinting.
  • If your dog is suffering from pain in other parts of the body, his/her pupils will be expanded.

18. Tail posture

Saggy tail

If your dog's tail, which normally stays uprights, seems to have sagged or between his/her legs, it's an indication your dog is not feeling comfortable and might be in pain.

19. Selectivity in jumping

Your dog may show reluctance in jumping over or on certain objects

Jumping is difficult when dogs are in pain. If you notice that your dog is jumping at specific angles or refusing to jump from a specific place, it is an indication that the dog might be in pain.

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If you notice one or more such symptoms, visit your vet asap

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Hi. I'm Dr. Shruti, and I love writing on everything related to dog care, so Welcome to your one-stop destination of dog care. Articles focus on dog care tips, grooming, psychology, training, diseases, and everything dog-related.

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