Pain can often be at the root of the following behaviour issues:
- New or out of character changes in behaviour
- Reactivity
- Irritability
- Touch avoidance
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Clinginess
- Change in sleeping patterns
- Change in sleeping places
*Dogs will continue to run, jump, play, fetch or pull even when they are in pain
Physical clues
- Weight shifting
- Uneven gait
- Slow to sit / stand
- Refusal to stay sitting – will flop to a lie
- Hesitation before facing stairs / bed / funirture
- Stiff after sleeping
- Bunny hopping
- Tail tucks
- Arched back
If you suspect your dog may be in pain, refer to your vet for a full top to tail – explain in detail the dogs behaviours and physical signs to allow full examanimation
