Dogs can be very expressive at times, and often manage to communicate with us quite well. For instance, Fido usually has no trouble getting his point across when he wants to play or is ready for a walk. However, your pet may not find it so easy to tell you when he isn’t feeling well. Read on as a Norwalk, CA vet lists some signs that your canine companion is in pain.
Reduced Appetite
Healthy dogs have healthy appetites. You should be immediately concerned if your pup isn’t interested in dinner.
Withdrawal
Our canine friends are pack animals by nature, and are happiest when surrounded by their friends, either two- or four-legged. If Fido suddenly loses interest in interacting with you and/or other household pets, he may not be feeling well.
Grumpiness
For most of us, being hurt or sick isn’t much of a mood booster. This also holds true for dogs. If your furry friend seems uncharacteristically cranky, he could be sick.
Lack of Interest In Play
Dogs are usually quite playful, which is one reason they’re such fun pets. However, if Fido isn’t feeling well, he may not have much interest in playing.
Licking/Biting
Fido may lick or bite at himself if something is hurting him. For example, pups with arthritis often nibble or lick at the bases of their tails.
Shying
If Fido is hurting, he may flinch away from you if you try to pet him, especially in a sore area. In some cases, dogs may even try to bite. (For this reason, it’s often recommended to muzzle injured dogs before transporting them to emergency clinics.)
Vocalization
Dogs that are in pain may howl, bark, whimper, or whine. Keep an eye—or ear—out for changes in Fido’s usual speaking habits.
Limping
Limping is a definite sign that something is wrong. This can of course be caused by injuries, but it can also be an early sign of arthritis. At first, your canine pal may only limp briefly, usually when he first gets up. As time passes, the limp will become worse.
Restlessness
Restlessness is another red flag to look for. Your pooch may also continuously get up or down, as he will have a hard time getting comfortable.
Please contact us, your Norwalk, CA vet clinic, for all of your pup’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
