Dogs are stoic animals that mask pain, making welfare-conscious owners and vets essential for identifying and treating chronic pain conditions.
Pain management in companion dogs is a welfare area where significant advances have been made but much remains to be done. Many dogs suffer chronic pain from arthritis, dental disease, or breed-related conditions for years without adequate recognition or treatment. The stoic nature of dogs - evolved not to show weakness - means owners often interpret pain as 'slowing down with age' rather than treatable suffering. Validated pain assessment tools, owner education about subtle pain signs (reduced activity, reluctance to jump, changes in gait), and accessible veterinary pain management options are the key welfare interventions. Regular pain screening at annual vet checks for older dogs should be standard practice.