Anyone who has experienced acute or chronic pain knows that it impacts every aspect of life, from mood, to sleep, to relationships, to function, and the same is true for our dogs.
Recent literature suggests that 33% – 80% of challenging dog behaviours including, but not limited to, aggression, anxiety, resource guarding, house soiling, reactivity, and compulsive behaviours might be due to underlying medical conditions (Mills, 2020).
The frequency, intensity, and complex interplay of these behaviours are factors to consider in any responsible behaviour consult and training plan.
Musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and dermatological conditions are 3 of the most commonly cited causes of pain and discomfort that can contribute to challenging behaviours, as well as neurological and environmental factors.
Pain in dogs is underreported, underrecognized, underassessed, and undertreated but a growing area of interest in both the veterinary world as well as among responsible force-free trainers.
Part of the challenge is that pain isn’t always obvious and dogs have evolved to hide pain. A dog who is experiencing pain might still run, zoom, play, and eat “normally” and only show obvious physical signs of pain (such as limping) after significant levels of pain.
Dog guardians often seek help from dog trainers for behaviour challenges. Behaviour, as well as gait analysis, can be useful indicators of pain and any responsible training plan needs to consider potential contributing medical causes of behaviour.
Assessing and treating pain in dogs requires the collaboration of dog guardians, veterinarians, force free trainers, and sometimes, veterinary behaviourists.
If you suspect that your dog’s behaviour might be due to pain, consider discussing your concerns with a fear-free veterinarian about starting a possible pain trial.
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