The early signs of pain are subtle. Dogs pain include limping, reluctant to move, squinting or pawing at the eyes, crying out or whining or even snapping when touched.

• Changes in dog personality, such as normally quiet dog become aggressive and vice versa
• Whining or whimpering, especially when a painful area is touched or the dog in pain is forced to move
• Licking, shaking, biting, scratching of an area
• Changes in activity level, including restlessness
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in facial expression, such as dull eyes or pinned ears
• Changes in bowel movements or urination, such as straining

Managing dogs pain is important for any condition that interferes with your dog's normal activities. How dog pain is managed depends on the type and cause of the pain. Some dogs pain can be cured, while other types of dogs pain can only be managed. Preventing and relieving your dogs pain is something you and your vet can work toward together.

Never give your dogs in pain any kind of pain relief medication without first checking with your vet. Some drugs are toxic to dogs even in very small amount. Take steps to limit any stress on dogs in pain. Keep visits short and quiet will relief your dog pain more or less. Your dog needs to eat well to recover, so diet is important. Your dog in pain may not have appetite but tempt him with canned food. Weight loss is another aspect that can help relieve your dogs pain, especially if he suffers from an orthopedic condition.