Pain in Dogs
Each of us experiences pain, sometimes less, sometimes more. Just like our four-legged companions. We think that since we spend 24 hours a day with our pets, we should understand them very well and catch the signals that a dog sends us. Often, however, it is different and we have difficulty recognising behaviours that may indicate that something is wrong with our dog. Compared to humans, dogs have a high pain threshold, which not everyone is aware of, which is why we often downplay or misinterpret symptoms of illness.
Symptoms of pain in dogs
Signs of pain are manifested differently by dogs. It all depends on the breed, age, and even the temperament of the individual animal. In some breeds, a torn claw can cause severe pain, lameness, aggression, whilst in another breed it may only result in licking the paw. Chronic pain is definitely more difficult to recognise, for example in degenerative joint disease, which develops slowly in our pet and may manifest itself, for example, through reduced activity. A sign of pain can also be restless running around the room, or a sudden jump up from the bed. It will be different in the case of acute pain, which appears suddenly – then we know straight away and react. It also happens that a dog responds to pain with aggression towards its owner. Therefore, if we notice any deviations in behaviour that persist for a longer period of time, we should consult with a veterinarian.
Remember that a warm nose on your dog does not indicate that it is ill. This is a MYTH.
Pain in dogs – the most common symptoms:
- Decreased activity
- Loss of appetite – it may be caused, for example, by tooth replacement in puppies, but if it is hot outside, dogs are also reluctant to eat. However, reluctance to eat may result from ear inflammation or inflammation of the jaw muscles, or gum and tooth disease
- Problems with movement
- Hypersensitivity
- Atypical behaviour – if we notice that our dog has been carefully licking its paw for some time, it may indicate a wound on the pad, a broken claw, or it may have a foreign body lodged in it, such as a piece of glass or a rose thorn, but also inflammation of the interdigital spaces. However, when we notice that the dog is intensively licking the area around the genitals, this may indicate pain accompanying bladder stones and urethral calculi
- Increased thirst (polydipsia) – may indicate that the dog is simply thirsty. However, if the dog regularly drinks significantly more water than before, this may be a sign of disease. Polydipsia occurs in diabetes, kidney failure or adrenal cortex insufficiency
- Dilated pupils appear with severe pain and stress. This pain may result from eye disease, especially in glaucoma. This disease mainly occurs in older dogs and certain breeds such as spaniels, beagles, poodles and miniature schnauzers
Remember that the most important thing is to observe your pet and keep in mind that changes in its appearance, movement, and behaviour may indicate that your dog is experiencing pain.
