Recognising and Managing Chronic Pain in Dogs

Chronic pain is common in dogs but frequently unrecognised because dogs compensate behaviourally, making proactive assessment essential for welfare.

Key Facts

Osteoarthritis is estimated to affect over 20% of dogs and is chronically underdiagnosed
Dogs rarely vocalise in response to chronic pain unlike acute pain
Subtle signs including reduced activity, changed posture, and reluctance to jump indicate chronic pain
Validated pain scales including the Glasgow CMPS provide objective assessment tools
Multimodal pain management combining NSAIDs, physiotherapy, and weight management is most effective

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with unrecognised chronic pain suffer daily without their owners realising the extent of their discomfort. The stoic nature of dogs means chronic pain signs are subtle and easily attributed to normal ageing. Proactive pain assessment by veterinarians, combined with owner education about early signs, allows earlier intervention that maintains quality of life. Weight management, physiotherapy, and appropriate analgesics can substantially improve welfare outcomes for dogs with chronic pain.

What You Can Do

Learn subtle signs of chronic pain in dogs including stiffness after rest and reluctance to climb stairs
Ask your vet to assess pain at every check-up especially for senior and large breed dogs
Follow prescribed pain management plans consistently and report side effects promptly
Maintain healthy body weight to reduce joint loading in dogs with or at risk of arthritis
Consider physiotherapy or hydrotherapy as adjuncts to medication for dogs with joint pain