When it comes to the well-being and happiness of our beloved dogs, we often wonder if they experience emotions similar to humans, particularly when they are in pain.
This blog delves into the intriguing realm of canine emotions and explores the question, “Do dogs cry when in pain?”[1]
By observing the behavior of our four-legged companions, we aim to unravel the truth behind whether dogs actually shed tears as a manifestation of physical distress.
Join us as we gain a comprehensive understanding of how dogs express pain and explore their unique emotional world.
Contents
Why Does My Dog Cry When In Pain?
If you are a dog owner, you may have wondered if your furry friend can cry when they are in pain. Crying is a natural and common way for humans to express their emotions and relieve their stress, but what about dogs? Do they cry tears like we do? How do they show their pain and distress?
Crying in Dogs
- The act of crying is the release of tears from the eyes in response to an emotional or physical stimulation. Crying in dogs differs from crying in humans.
- Although dogs have tear ducts and are capable of producing tears, they are mostly used to lubricate and clean their eyes. They don’t shed tears out of grief or suffering.
- They instead have alternative means of communicating their feelings and wants.
Dogs Express Pain Through Sounds
- When your dog cries when they are in pain, they are not actually shedding tears. They are vocalizing their discomfort or distress through sounds such as whining, whimpering, howling, or groaning.
- These sounds can have different meanings depending on the context and the tone of your dog.
- For example, your dog may whine to get your attention or sympathy, to ask for something they want or need, to show submission or fear, or to indicate that they are in pain or discomfort. Your dog may also whimper to express anxiety, excitement, frustration, or pain.
- Your dog may howl to communicate with other dogs, to mark their territory, to express loneliness or boredom, or to signal that they are in pain or danger.
- Your dog may groan to show contentment, relaxation, or pleasure, or to indicate that they are in pain or discomfort.
Understanding Your Dog’s Vocalizations
- As a dog owner, you should try to understand the meaning behind your dog’s vocalizations and respond accordingly.
- You should also pay attention to other signs of pain in your dog such as changes in behavior, posture, movement, appetite, thirst, and grooming habits.
How to Tell If a Dog Is in Pain?
Dogs are very good at hiding their pain, as it is a survival instinct that prevents them from appearing weak or vulnerable to predators or rivals. Some signs of pain in dogs are:
1. Changes in Behavior: Your dog may become more aggressive, fearful, anxious, depressed, or restless. They may also avoid contact with you or other animals, or seek more attention and comfort.[2]
2. Changes in Vocalization: Your dog may bark, whine, howl, groan, or whimper more than usual, or stop making any noise at all.
3. Changes in Posture and Movement: Your dog may limp, favor one side of their body, have difficulty standing or lying down, or show stiffness or trembling. They may also change their facial expressions, such as squinting their eyes, squinting their eyes, or licking their lips.
4. Changes in Appetite and Thirst: Your dog may lose interest in food and water, or eat and drink more than normal. They may also vomit or have diarrhea.
5. Changes in Grooming Habits: Your dog may lick or bite at the area that hurts, or neglect their hygiene and appearance.
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, you should consult your veterinarian as soon as possible to find out the cause and treatment of their pain.
How to Help a Dog in Pain?
The best way to help a dog in pain is to take them to the vet and follow their instructions. Depending on the cause and severity of the pain, your vet may prescribe medication, surgery, physical therapy, or other treatments.
You should never give your dog any human medication without consulting your vet first, as some of them can be toxic or harmful for dogs.
In addition to following the vet’s advice, you can also do some things at home to make your dog feel better:
- Provide them with a soft and warm bed where they can rest comfortably.
- Offer them fresh water and nutritious food that is easy to digest.
- Give them gentle massage or petting on the areas that do not hurt.
- Talk to them softly and calmly and praise them for being brave.
- Play soothing music or sounds that can relax them.
- Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that can startle them.
- Keep them company and show them your love and support.
FAQs
How do I know if my dog is crying in pain?
Signs of a dog in pain include whimpering, limping, decreased appetite, restlessness, guarding body parts, and changes in posture. Consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
How do you comfort a dog in pain?
Comfort a dog in pain by providing a calm environment, a comfortable resting area, and speaking to them in a soothing voice. Avoid touching the affected area unless necessary. Consult a vet for pain management strategies.
Do dogs know when they are in pain?
While dogs may not fully understand pain like humans do, they can recognize and respond to it. They may exhibit withdrawal, changes in appetite or sleep, and signs of distress. Pay attention to these signs and seek veterinary care for your dog’s well-being.
Why does my dog crying in pain while sleeping?
If your dog cries in pain while sleeping, it could be due to sleep-related pain. This can be caused by conditions like arthritis or muscle/joint issues. Consult a vet to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan. They may suggest pain management strategies to alleviate the pain and improve your dog’s sleep quality and overall well-being.
Conclusion
While it is true that dogs do not shed tears in the same way humans do when experiencing pain, they have their own unique ways of expressing discomfort.
Dogs are remarkably perceptive and can communicate their distress through various signals, such as changes in body language, vocalizations, and even altered eating or sleeping patterns.
As responsible pet owners, it is crucial to pay close attention. Whether it’s regular vet check-ups, appropriate pain management, or simply offering a comforting presence, let’s ensure that our furry companions lead happy and pain-free lives.
Understanding how dogs express pain is just one step towards fostering a deeper connection and nurturing the bond we share with these incredible creatures.
We hope you enjoyed this blog and learned something new about your dog’s behavior. Thank you for reading and have a great day with your dog!
References:
- Meyers-Manor, J. E., & Botten, M. L. (2020). A shoulder to cry on: Heart rate variability and empathetic behavioral responses to crying and laughing in dogs. Canadian Journal of Experimental Psychology, 74(3), 235–243. https://doi.org/10.1037/cep0000225- APA
- National Academies Press (US). (2009). Recognition and Assessment of Pain. Recognition and Alleviation of Pain in Laboratory Animals – NCBI Bookshelf. Retrieved June 5, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK32656/- NCB
Dania is a dog groomer living in California, who loves styling dogs. She often uses dog accessories to keep them distracted while grooming. She is also a dog parent to a Pomeranian, Duke. It’s because of him she is always on a lookout for the best dog foods, toys, other dog accessories, and ways to keep him equipped, healthy and happy.
