Download Dog Owner Factsheet* (PDF)
*Factsheet may be freely reproduced as long as it is used in its entirety without alterations.
Trust Your Instincts. If you think your dog is in pain, it probably is.
Minimizing animal pain, wherever possible, is important both ethically and
legally. Consult your vet as appropriate.
Signs to Look for:
Some Changes in Appearance and Behavior
-
Stiff body movements
- Unwillingness to move
- Lying still or adopting an unusual posture
- Biting, scratching, or guarding certain
regions of the body
- Lack of appetite
- Shivering
- Increased panting
Some Changes in Alertness
-
Appearing less alert (more common in more
severe pain)
- Restlessness or appearing more alert (more
common in less severe pain)
Some Changes in Response to People
- Abnormal aggressiveness or apprehensiveness
when handled
- A change in the way your dog responds to
you, such as a lack of tail wagging
Changes in Vocalization*
- Quieter than normal
- Whimpering or howling, especially when
unattended
- Growling without apparent provocation
*These are only guidelines: lack of vocalization or
excessive vocalization are not always reliable indicators
of pain.
