Dogs are remarkably good at hiding pain. It’s an instinct- in the wild, showing weakness made an animal vulnerable, and that wiring hasn’t changed just because your dog now sleeps on the couch. So by the time discomfort becomes obvious, it’s often been building for a while.
That instinct makes our job as pet owners harder. A 2026 study published in PLOS One found that dog owners were no better than non-owners at recognising pain when it appeared as subtle behavioural changes rather than obvious limping.
The good news: once you know what to look for, many of these early signs are easy to spot. Here’s what to watch for- and when to check in with your vet.
Subtle Signs Your Dog Is in Pain
These are the early, easily-missed signs- the ones the research shows owners most often overlook. They tend to fall into a few categories:
Behaviour
- Becoming quieter or withdrawn, avoiding interaction
- Following you around (“shadowing”) more than usual
- Less interest in play
Movement
- Shorter walks, or hanging back partway
- Slower to get up, or hesitating on stairs
- No longer rushing to greet you at the door
Facial expression
- A tighter look around the eyes, or a vacant stare
- Altered ear position
Grooming & touch
- Lip licking or nose licking outside of mealtimes
- Turning away when touched, or reluctance to be handled in a certain spot
Sleep
- Restlessness at night, or sleeping more than usual during the day
Any one of these on its own might mean nothing. But a cluster of them, or a clear change from your dog’s normal, is worth paying attention to.
More Obvious Signs of Pain in Dogs
Some signs are easier to recognise- though they often appear only once discomfort is more established:
Movement
- Limping, stiffness, or difficulty getting up
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or get on the couch
Body & posture
- Excessive licking or chewing at one area of the body
- Unusual posture, such as a hunched back or a “praying” stretch
Physical signs
- Panting at rest, without recent exercise or heat
- Changes in appetite or drinking
Vocalising
- Whimpering, yelping, or groaning when moving or being touched
- Growling or snapping when approached or handled- often a pain response, not “grumpiness”
It’s worth knowing that some of these can also point to conditions unrelated to pain, which is another reason a vet assessment matters.
How to Check In With Your Dog at Home
You don’t need to be an expert to keep an eye on your dog’s comfort. A few gentle habits help:
- Learn what “normal” feels like. Running your hands calmly along your dog’s back and legs from time to time helps you notice changes early.
- Watch the everyday moments. How they get up, settle down, take the stairs, or greet you at the door often reveals more than a single obvious symptom.
- Keep a simple note. Jotting down when you notice a change – and what was happening – gives your vet a much clearer picture.
Never give your dog human pain medications or those prescribed for another pet. Many are dangerous for dogs, and some can be fatal.
Where CBD Fits In
For dogs dealing with ongoing discomfort, some vets may consider CBD as part of a broader, prescription-guided comfort plan. It isn’t a first step or a substitute for veterinary assessment- but for owners exploring what’s available, it’s one of the options a vet can talk through.
In Australia, CBD is a prescription-only medicine, so it’s only appropriate where a vet has assessed your dog and determined it suits their needs. You can read more about how it’s used in our guide to dog pain relief in Australia.
When to See Your Vet
If you notice a persistent change in your dog’s behaviour, movement, or routine, it’s worth booking a check-up. Catching discomfort early tends to make it far easier to manage.
It’s also worth knowing that managing dog pain has come a long way. Beyond rest and conventional medication, a vet may draw on a broader range of comfort and mobility approaches- so if your dog is showing signs of pain, it’s worth a conversation about what’s available, including vet-prescribed options such as CBD. If your dog is older, our post on CBD for senior dogs covers age-related mobility in more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my dog is in pain?
Look for changes from your dog’s normal behaviour – altered sleep, increased clinginess, withdrawal, reluctance to be touched, or shorter walks – alongside more obvious signs like limping or stiffness. Because dogs hide pain, subtle shifts in routine are often the earliest clue.
Do dogs hide their pain?
Yes. Concealing pain is a survival instinct, so many dogs appear normal even when uncomfortable. This is why knowing your dog’s baseline and watching for small changes is so important.
What should I do if I think my dog is in pain?
Book a vet check-up, and note what you’ve observed to help them assess. Never give human pain medication or another pet’s medication, as many are dangerous for dogs.
Can older dogs show pain without limping?
Yes. Many older dogs first show pain through behavioural changes like sleeping more, avoiding stairs, slowing on walks or becoming less interested in play long before they develop an obvious limp.
Speak With Your Vet
If something about your dog seems off, trust that instinct- you know them best. A quick conversation with your vet can bring real peace of mind, and help your dog feel more like themselves again.
If you’d like to explore vet-guided options, including CBD, the CBD Vets Australia team can help. Contact us on 02 8294 9303 or visit our website.
This article reflects peer-reviewed veterinary literature and Australian regulatory frameworks available as of 2026. Individual responses vary. Pet owners should consult a qualified veterinarian before introducing any new therapy.
