Our fur babies need plenty of TLC, but sometimes it can be tricky to spot when they're struggling.
While a pet owner should always follow their intuition when it comes to the wellbeing of their animals, how can we identify the hard-to-spot signs that our pooches could be in pain?
Don't forget, dogs can also suffer from devastating conditions like arthritis and dysplasia - but here are the subtle signals you should look for in order to get them treated nice and early.
Just like us, dogs' personalities vary between each individual. Some will have no trouble letting their owner know when they're in distress!
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Others, however, have a hard time expressing that they're suffering. According to experts, these dogs typically remain stoic, and will try to conceal discomfort as a natural survival instinct.
Despite this, certain changes in behaviour can be easy to spot when you know what to look for. They may be subtle at first, but getting to know your dog's habits and patterns could potentially save their life one day.
One of the most subtle signs to scout around for is the way in which your dog stands up. After a long chill session, watch out for your furry friend when they get up and walk away.
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Typically, pups of all shapes and sizes will stand up on their hind legs first. But if your dog is in pain from the hips down, they may try to hoist themselves up using their front legs instead.
Experts say that this behaviour is 'not normal', and could indicate towards hip dysplasia and other bone issues.
Other changes in temperament are always worth watching out for - particularly sudden ones. If your paw pal isn't feeling themselves, they may start to act strangely.
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Achey pets usually express pain through aggression or isolation. If you're worried about your loved one, visiting the vet is always the best bet.
Loss of appetite, excessive grooming or panting are other sure-fire ways to know when your dog isn't feeling right. No-one knows your pooch better than you, so be sure to trust your instincts!
Featured Image Credit: Pexels