What is the Best Pain Relief for Dogs?

The pain relief used will depend on many factors, including the dog’s age, medical history, and the owner’s budget. Oftentimes, rather than using a single medication, your vet may use a combination of two or more.

There is no one pain relief that is better than another, as each plays a specific role. It is not unusual for a dog to require different doses and types of pain relief over the course of a chronic disease, particularly as they get older or their disease progresses.

Understanding Pain in Dogs

Having a general understanding of pain and its effects is important for us to know how to manage it most effectively.

Types of Pain in Dogs: Acute vs Chronic

Acute pain is one that comes on quickly and does not last for very long. An example would be when a dog rips a claw out, but it heals within a few days and the pain is gone.

Chronic pain is longstanding pain, which can be difficult for the patient to cope with, both physically and mentally. This pain can last for weeks, months or even longer. A common cause of chronic pain in dogs is osteoarthritis.

How Dogs Show Pain Differently From Humans

Dogs aren’t going to sit around complaining! Indeed, many dogs won’t whine or yelp, even if in a lot of pain. Signs of pain are often subtle and can include reluctance to be sociable or to exercise, stiffness, slowed movement, shaking, or a reduced appetite.

What Are Common Causes of Pain in Dogs?

Many different things can cause a dog to be in pain, and they’ll sometimes be interlinked.

Injury and Trauma

Although we see injuries at any age, they are especially prevalent in younger dogs and those who work or compete in sporting events.

The more active a dog is, the greater the risk of trauma. Common injuries include ruptured knee ligaments, torn claws, muscle strains, and lacerated paw pads.

Arthritis and Joint Disease

Arthritis is incredibly common within the canine population. It is estimated that up to 80% of seniors will be affected to some degree. Arthritis is a painful and ongoing joint inflammation. The underlying cause can be something like hip dysplasia, a previous fracture, or a joint infection.

Dogs who are overweight are more prone to arthritis and also find it harder to cope with. Similarly, a sedentary dog is more likely to develop joint disease and will have weaker muscles and more lax joints.

Back and Spine Problems

Back problems such as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), spondylosis, and lumbosacral stenosis can all cause back pain in dogs, both acute and chronic. There is also the possibility for these orthopaedic disorders to impinge on the spinal cord, leading to neurological symptoms.

Post-Surgical Pain

Surgeries are typically painful, particularly when a body cavity is opened and when there is a large surgical wound. Orthopaedic surgeries are known for being especially sore.

It is the veterinary team’s job to ensure that the dog’s pain is well managed throughout the operation and in the post-operative and recovery period.

Illness and Inflammation

A range of medical conditions is going to cause pain. This includes pancreatitis (notoriously causing a great deal of pain in the cranial abdomen), bladder stones, ear infections, meningitis and certain cancers, such as bone cancer.

What Are Signs Your Dog May Be in Pain?

It is a good idea to monitor your dog’s normal behaviour and activity levels, so you can pick up on any signs of pain early on.

Behavioural Changes to Look Out for

You might find that your dog is not acting as they usually would. This can mean restlessness or pacing for some, or lethargy and sleeping more for others. Your dog may become clingy and ask for more attention, or they may hide away and act reluctant to be touched.

Many dogs will be less eager to exercise and will ask to play less. They might also be grumpy, or even growl or bite if in a lot of pain, and they do not want to be touched.

Physical Symptoms of Pain

Some of the physical symptoms you may see include:

• Shaking or trembling
• Panting
• A limp
• Stiff or slow movement
• A hunched posture
• Excessive stretching
• Licking or chewing a specific spot

Subtle Signs That Are Easy to Miss

Not every sign is going to be obvious, and many dogs are stoic with their pain and hide it well.

Some of the most subtle signs are increased time in bed and less time moving about and exploring.

What Pain Relief is Safe for Dogs?

There are many safe pain relief options for dogs, but some are highly dangerous.

Never give any medication that has not been approved by your vet to your dog.

What Are Vet-Approved Pain Relief Options for Dogs?

The main classes of pain relief are used every day in veterinary practice and enable vets to manage pain really effectively.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Some examples of NSAIDs include Meloxicam, Carprofen and Grapiprant. These are generally well tolerated by dogs on a long-term basis and are among the mainstays of therapy for chronic medical conditions such as arthritis.

Many owners worry about the side effects of long-term use. However, when used judiciously, alongside regular blood tests, serious complications are rare.

Opioids and Strong Pain Medications

Opioids like Tramadol and Buprenorphine may be used by themselves or alongside other medicines such as NSAIDs. They offer strong pain relief and are commonly used within the veterinary clinic during and after a surgical procedure.

Dogs taking these medicines may be drowsy and off balance. Other side effects can include constipation, an upset stomach, or vomiting.

Steroids

Corticosteroids have a strong anti-inflammatory effect and provide pain relief. They are regularly used in the management of allergic skin disease and of conditions such as steroid-responsive meningitis.

Side effects are par for the course and include panting, increased thirst, and increased hunger. However, once the medicine is stopped, these signs should quickly subside.

Local Pain Relief and Injections

Local pain relief offers a wonderful opportunity to provide pain relief directly at the source, enabling us to limit the systemic side effects.

However, it takes an experienced vet to provide the injections. There is also a small risk of complications, such as the introduction of an infection.

Are There Non-Medication Pain Relief Options?

If a dog is in pain, they will nearly always benefit from medication. At the same time, there are other things we can do to help. Taking a multimodal approach can provide the greatest benefit.

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

It is not unusual for patients to be referred to canine physiotherapists after a serious injury or during recovery from orthopaedic surgery.

The physio can provide specific exercises for the dog to follow and can assess them regularly to ensure they are on the right track.

Hydrotherapy, massage, and electrical stimulation can all play a role. We need to consider what the patient tolerates and what they may find stressful, and this will vary from one dog to another.

Weight Management

There is no shying away from the fact that maintaining a healthy weight can have a huge effect on pain relief when it comes to musculoskeletal pain. With about half of pet dogs overweight, losing weight will be critical for many patients.

We are usually aiming for a Body Condition Score of 4 out of 9. This is achieved through a combination of calorie control and an exercise programme.

Supportive Home Care and Environment Changes

There are many things you can do from home to support the dog. Things like regular claw clipping, keeping the home warm, providing non-slip mats, and the use of ramps will all prove helpful.

Many dogs who are recovering from surgery will be kept in a crate, or at least in the downstairs of their home, to reduce strain.

Natural and Alternative Pain Relief for Dogs: What to Know

In addition to the more conventional pain relief options, there are lots of other things that can help. In general, we would be recommending these in addition to prescribed pain relief, rather than in their place.

Supplements and Joint Support Products

Supplements such as fish oils, turmeric, green lipped mussel, glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate have been proven to reduce joint inflammation and improve mobility. These must be given every day, and will take several weeks to take effect.

CBD has gained huge popularity in recent years and may have some pain relief effects, as well as the ability to reduce anxiety and help manage seizures.

Currently, data within the veterinary world is lacking, and there are a large number of unregulated products on the market.

Heat, Cold, and Massage Therapy

The use of heat and cold can alter blood flow to an area, reducing swelling or relaxing muscles. Massage is also effective at improving circulation and can reduce tension effectively.

What Should You Avoid When Choosing “Natural” Remedies?

Avoid relying on natural therapies if your dog is in pain. They are helpful adjuncts to conventional medicine, but their effect is limited.

Steer clear of products that sound too good to be true and that are marketed without veterinarian backing. There are many charlatans willing to promise owners miraculous results for the right price, with no evidence to back up their claims.

How Do Vets Decide the Best Pain Relief for Your Dog?

Your vet will tailor a plan to your dog’s signalment and medical history.

Assessing Pain Severity and Cause

The medicine prescribed will have to be strong enough to adequately control the level of pain being experienced.

Different therapies are likely to be used for musculoskeletal pain versus visceral pain. So, while we may use heat therapy for arthritis, this would not be considered for a dog with pancreatitis.

Monitoring Side Effects and Effectiveness

Patients should be seen regularly to ensure their pain is being well-managed. It is not unusual to have to adjust their protocol from time to time, which may mean changing medicine or adding in something like acupuncture or massage.

Vets will usually examine the patient and determine a ‘pain score’ using a questionnaire. They may also perform a blood and urine test to ensure the organs are coping well with any medicine the dog is on.

When Does Dog Pain Become an Emergency?

In some instances, a dog will suddenly not be coping with their pain, and we need to act fast.

Signs That Require Immediate Veterinary Care

Some red flag signs that would warrant an urgent vet visit would include:

• Yelping, shrieking or being very vocal
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Weakness or paralysis
• Unwillingness to remove
• Very rapid or laboured breathing
• Collapse or seizures

Get Emergency Vet Care for Your Dog

Contact an emergency vet right away if you are concerned your dog is in pain that they are not coping with, or if they have recently experienced a traumatic injury.

Pain Relief for Dogs FAQs

What Are the Best Pain Relief Options for Dogs?

The best pain relief depends on the cause and severity of pain. Vets commonly prescribe NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation, alongside other options such as opioids, adjuvant medications, or newer therapies for conditions like osteoarthritis. Treatment plans may also include supplements, physiotherapy, or multimodal pain management tailored to your dog’s needs.

Can I Use Human Medications for My Dog's Pain Relief?

No, you should never give human pain medication unless your vet specifically advises it. Many common drugs, including ibuprofen and naproxen, are toxic to dogs and can cause serious complications such as organ damage or poisoning. Always speak to a vet before giving any medication.

How Do I Know If My Dog is in Pain?

Signs of pain can include limping, reluctance to move, reduced appetite, whining, behavioural changes, swelling, or difficulty resting comfortably. Some dogs become withdrawn, while others may be restless or irritable. Any noticeable change in normal behaviour or mobility may indicate discomfort and should be assessed by a vet.

What Are the Signs of Medication Side Effects in Dogs?

Possible side effects of pain medications include vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, lethargy, or behavioural changes. More serious reactions can involve liver or kidney problems, ulcers, or neurological symptoms. If you notice any unusual signs after starting medication, contact your vet promptly for advice.