3. Limping or Favouring One Side – One of the Clearest Signs Your Dog Is in Pain
If your dog is suddenly limping, walking unevenly, or putting more weight on one side of their body, it’s often a clear sign that they’re in pain.
Dogs are naturally energetic and love to move, so any noticeable change in the way they walk, run, or jump should never be ignored.
Even a slight limp that appears only sometimes can reveal that something deeper is going on — and your dog might be trying to hide how much it hurts.
What Limping Could Mean
There are many possible reasons behind a limp. Joint or muscle injuries, like sprains and strains, are common causes, especially after active play or jumping from a height.
In older dogs, limping often signals arthritis or joint degeneration, while younger dogs might experience growing pains or minor injuries from rough play.
Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a cut, thorn, or splinter lodged in their paw — yet even small injuries can cause significant discomfort.
Subtle Signs Owners Often Miss
Not all dogs show pain through obvious limping.
Your dog might refuse to climb stairs, hesitate to jump on the bed, or stop running as much as they used to.
They may also stand with one paw raised or shift their weight constantly to avoid putting pressure on the painful area.
These subtle changes often appear before the pain becomes severe.
When to Take Action
If limping lasts more than a day, keeps getting worse, or is paired with whining, swelling, or loss of appetite, see a veterinarian right away.
Early treatment can prevent further injury and get your dog back to moving happily and pain-free.