But It Shouldn't Hurt: Understanding Pain in Dogs
Its-all-about-the-dog-training-academy 
Pain in dogs is subjective—learn how to recognise signs, advocate for them, and ensure a life free from discomfort, regardless of age or diagnosis
But It Shouldn't Hurt: Understanding Pain in Dogs
When it comes to medical diagnoses in dogs, especially conditions like hip dysplasia, luxating patella's, or mild arthritis, many guardians hear reassuring words from their veterinarian: “It shouldn’t hurt.” While such statements may be well-intentioned, they can inadvertently minimise the very real experience of pain and discomfort in dogs. Pain is deeply subjective, and no one else can definitively know how another being feels — human or animal.
What Is Pain?
Pain is a complex sensation involving not just physical injury or abnormality but also an individual’s perception and tolerance. What may register as mild discomfort for one dog could be significant agony for another. Factors like age, genetics, previous experiences, and overall health all play a role in how pain is experienced.
Acute vs. Chronic Pain
It’s important to distinguish between acute and chronic pain in dogs. Acute pain often has a sudden onset and is typically linked to a specific injury or condition, such as a broken bone or surgery. Dogs with acute pain might display more obvious signs like whining, limping, or guarding the area. Chronic pain, however, develops gradually over time and can result from conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia. Dogs experiencing chronic pain often “just get on with it,” adapting to their discomfort because it becomes their new normal. This can make it more challenging to detect without close observation.
Observing the Subtle Signs
Dogs, by nature, are masters of hiding discomfort. This instinctive behaviour harks back to their wild ancestors, where showing vulnerability could mean becoming prey. As a result, subtle signs of pain are often mistaken for normal quirks or aging.
Look out for:
- Changes in posture, like stiffness or a hunched back.
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or engage in usual activities.
- Altered gait, such as limping or a “bunny hop”.
- Avoiding being touched in certain areas.
- Shifts in behaviour, such as increased irritability, anxiety, or withdrawn demeanour.
Even if a condition has been deemed "mild" on clinical examination, these signals may suggest that your dog is experiencing discomfort.
Pain Is Individual
When a vet says, “It shouldn’t hurt,” they’re basing this on clinical evidence, averages, or textbook cases. However, no two dogs are the same. Just as people have unique pain thresholds, so do our canine companions. A small structural issue in one dog could be a daily source of pain for another. Conversely, a dog with severe x-ray findings might show no outward signs of discomfort.
Discomfort Affects All Ages
It’s a common misconception that pain and discomfort are primarily issues for older dogs. In reality, young dogs can also experience discomfort from conditions like hip dysplasia, developmental joint problems, or even soft tissue injuries. Because these dogs are often energetic and playful, their signs of pain might be overlooked. This highlights the importance of paying attention to any behavioural or physical changes, regardless of your dog’s age.
The Importance of Advocacy
As a dog’s guardian, you are their voice. Trust your intuition if you sense that your dog isn’t comfortable. Share your observations with your veterinarian, emphasising behaviours or changes that concern you. Push for deeper discussions about pain management options, even for “mild” conditions.
Options for Comfort
If you suspect your dog is in discomfort, there are many avenues to explore, including:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These can reduce inflammation and pain.
- Physiotherapy: Tailored exercises can strengthen muscles around the affected joint.
- Supplements: Products like glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega-3s may support joint health.
- Hydrotherapy: Swimming can be a low-impact way to maintain mobility and reduce pain.
- Environment Changes: Adding rugs, ramps, or orthopaedic beds can make a big difference.
A Compassionate Approach
Pain is not always about what can be seen in an x-ray or felt in an examination room. It’s about what your dog’s body is telling them. By embracing a compassionate and proactive approach, we can ensure our furry companions lead comfortable, fulfilling lives, free of avoidable pain.
The next time someone says, “But it shouldn’t hurt,” remember: only your dog knows their experience. And they’re counting on you to listen.
Categories: : Welfare