Signs Your Dog Might Be in Pain (That Are Easy to Miss)

Dogs are very good at hiding pain. It’s part of their instinct. In the wild, showing weakness can make them vulnerable, and even though our dogs are safe at home, that instinct is still there.

This means that by the time a dog shows obvious signs of pain, they may have been uncomfortable for a while. As dog owners, it’s often the small changes that tell us the most.

Changes in Behaviour

One of the first signs that something isn’t right is a change in behaviour. You know your dog better than anyone. If they’re acting differently, there’s usually a reason. Look out if they’re:

• Becoming quieter or withdrawn
• Wanting more attention than usual
• Avoiding people or hiding away
• Sudden grumpiness or snapping

These changes can be easy to brush off, but they’re often your dog’s way of telling you something is wrong.

Eating and Drinking Habits

A change in appetite is a big clue. If your dog is in pain, especially around the mouth or jaw, eating can become uncomfortable. You might notice:

• Eating less or refusing food
• Dropping food from their mouth
• Taking longer to eat
• Avoiding hard food

Subtle Signs of Physical Discomfort

Pain doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes it shows up in small physical changes. Keep an eye out for them:

• Limping or favouring one leg
• Moving more slowly than usual
• Having difficulty getting up or lying down
• Being reluctant to jump or climb stairs

These signs are often linked to joint pain, especially in older dogs, but they can also point to injury.

Facial Changes and Head Sensitivity

This is one area many owners overlook. If your dog is in pain around the head or mouth, you may notice:

• Swelling around the face or jaw
• Flinching when touched
• Holding their head differently
• Avoiding having their face stroked

In some cases, this can be linked to conditions like MMM in dogs, which affects the muscles used for chewing and can make even simple movements painful. Because it’s not as widely known, it’s easy to mistake this for fussiness or mood changes.

Changes in Body Language

Dogs communicate a lot through body language, and pain can change how they carry themselves. Watch for:

• Tense muscles
• A tucked tail
• Ears held back
• Restlessness or pacing

Some dogs may also struggle to settle, especially if they can’t get comfortable.

Excessive Licking or Grooming

If a dog is in pain in a specific area, they may try to soothe it themselves. This often shows as:

• Licking one spot repeatedly
• Chewing at paws or legs
• Focusing on one area more than usual

Over time, this can lead to sore skin, which creates another problem on top of the original issue.

Changes in Sleep and Energy Levels

Pain can be exhausting. You might notice your dog:

• Sleeping more than usual
• Seeming less interested in walks
• Not wanting to play
• Getting tired more quickly

On the flip side, some dogs may sleep less because they can’t get comfortable.

Trusting Your Gut

One of the most important things to remember is that you don’t need a clear, obvious symptom to take action. If your dog just doesn’t seem like themselves, that’s enough to pay attention. Many owners say they noticed something was wrong before they could explain exactly what it was.

When to Speak to a Vet

If you notice any of these signs and they don’t improve, it’s always best to get advice. You should contact a vet if:

• The behaviour lasts more than a couple of days
• Your dog seems to be in ongoing discomfort
• Eating or drinking changes suddenly
• There is swelling, especially around the face or jaw
• Your dog avoids being touched

Catching issues early can make treatment much easier and help your dog feel better sooner.

Helping Your Dog Feel Comfortable

While you’re figuring out what’s going on, there are a few simple things you can do to support your dog:

• Keep their routine consistent
• Provide a soft, comfortable place to rest
• Avoid rough play
• Make sure food and water are easy to access

Small adjustments can help reduce stress and keep them as comfortable as possible.

FAQ

• How can I tell if my dog is in pain?
  • Look for changes in behaviour, eating habits, movement, and body language. Even small differences can be a sign.
• Do dogs hide pain?
  • Yes, many dogs hide pain due to instinct, which is why subtle signs are so important.
• What are the most common signs of pain in dogs?
  • Changes in appetite, limping, low energy, and behaviour changes are some of the most common signs.
• Can MMM in dogs cause pain?
  • Yes, MMM affects the chewing muscles and can make eating and opening the mouth painful.
• Should I wait before going to the vet?
  • If symptoms are mild, you can monitor briefly. If they continue or worsen, it’s best to seek advice.

*This post is for general information only and is based on personal experience and research. It is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health or wellbeing, please seek advice from a qualified veterinarian.