5 Subtle Signs Your Dog Is in Pain (And How To Tell)

Dogs are really good at communicating with their humans, and there's no question that they learn and understand how to talk with the humans in their families. If they want to go for a walk, need a snack, or want a bit of a cuddle, they're a line of communication.

But one thing dogs aren't good at communicating is when they're in discomfort or pain. It's ingrained in them, and we see the same trait in other animals, since in the wild, showing vulnerability isn't smart for survival. That's why it can feel like some health issues for dogs appear out of nowhere, or you're second-guessing some new quirks or behaviors your loved dog is seemingly doing suddenly. The symptoms and signs are subtle and easy to dismiss as normal changes in behavior or typical aging.

Subtle Signs Your Dog Is in Pain

As a dog parent, knowing what to look for can make a big difference in recognizing subtle signs that your pup is actually in pain. Small shifts in their behaviors, habits, activity levels, or mood can indicate that something isn't right, or that something is really weighing on your dog. These signs aren't super loud, and if you recognize them, it's a good idea to check in with your veterinarian.

Excessive Licking

It's common to see dogs licking themselves, since it's a normal part of their grooming. But if you catch your dog excessively licking an area of their body, like their legs or paws, it could be an indication that they may have some pain or discomfort, according to Animal Emergency Service.

Dogs lick their pain points as an instinct to clean and care for them, the site explains, adding that if the pain is internal and not an open cut or wound, they will lick the spot over and over, trying to comfort themselves. This could indicate there's an issue with the muscle, bone, or ligament, for example.

Trying To Stand up With Front Legs

If you notice your pup starts to stand up from a sitting or lying position and they're using their front legs to pull themselves up first, this could be a sign they're experiencing pain in their back legs, the American Animal Hospital Association explains.

If your dog is experiencing pain in their lower back, back legs, or hips, they might have difficulty bearing weight and adopt a forward-leaning stance to keep as much weight as possible off those hind legs. This is subtle to spot, but it tells a lot if you see it. Another example of shifting which legs they bear their weight on could be abnormal wear on their hind nails.

Taking a While To Lie Down

When we're in pain, it can be hard to find a sleeping position that doesn't hurt or worsen our discomfort, and the same is true for pups.

If you notice your dog takes a while to lie down or get up, starts making grunting or groaning noises when they stand or sit, or whimpers while trying to get comfortable, that's a clear sign, VCA Animal Hospitals explains. Your pup also might take extra time to stand up for the same reasons, or avoid jumping on the couch or getting into the car.

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Drooling

There are many dog breeds known to drool a lot, and it can just be one of those quirks for some pups, but if you notice a sudden increase in drooling in your pet, who doesn't typically drool, it can be an indication that there might be some pain, according to GoodRX.

Having House-Training Issues

If your dog, who is usually really good at holding in the need to go to the bathroom until they're outside, is now starting to have accidents in the home, your pup might be in some pain, according to the American Animal Hospital Association.

This issue tends to pop up in older dogs, but other pups who struggle with pain or mobility might find themself at a point where going outside or asking to go outside might cause so much pain they'd rather not, despite feeling bad for breaking the rules. If a well-trained pup starts having accidents without any other obvious explanation, this could indicate they're struggling with pain.

Other Signs Your Dog Might Be in Pain

You know your dog best, and any change could indicate that a check-in with the vet might be in order. While these signs might be more subtle clues that your pet is experiencing pain or discomfort, the American Animal Hospital Association lists a few other signs, including:

• Unusual aggression
• Not wanting to go up or down the stairs
• Reducing activity, especially with things they usually love to do
• Not walking on slippery surfaces
• Difficulty sleeping
• Not wanting any social interaction
• Decrease in appetite
• Looking stiff
• Aversion to being brushed, bathed, or petted

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Dogs don't have a clear way to tell us when something doesn't feel right or hurts. We speak different languages, and while there are great and creative ways we can communicate with each other, it's often the subtle signs your pup shows that may indicate they're uncomfortable or in pain.

Being able to catch signs of pain or illness early can lead to faster treatment and interventions and better outcomes for your furry loved friend and the family as a whole. If you're concerned about behaviors or habits your pup is showing, it's never a bad idea to discuss them with your veterinarian.

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This story was originally published June 22, 2026 at 8:05 AM.