Many times when our dog is experiencing reactivity, our first concern is how to STOP the behavior. This is human nature. Before reacting to our dogs reactivity, it's important to investigate the origin of the behavior and whether pain is contributing.

“Daniel Mills, FRCVS, a veterinary researcher and behaviorist at the University of Lincoln (England), suggests that a large portion of behavior problems are exacerbated or caused by physical pain, and that resolution of that pain can mitigate or even resolve the behavioral issue. Almost 80% of the behavior problems in his own practice, says Dr. Mills, have a component of diagnosed or suspected pain.”

How dogs may display pain

Our dogs only have a few ways to communicate when they are uncomfortable, stressed or in pain. Often times they may not appear to indicate that they are in pain at all; that is to the naked eye. Body language can be very subtle. Behavior to watch for:

• Noise sensitivity
• Growling when being touched or moved
• Flinching when being picked up or being leashed up
• Less active or willing to jump up or down from different elevations
• Less tolerant with other animals in home (snapping, growling, avoiding)
• Snarking at other dogs more frequently or more intensely
• Not enjoying things they usually enjoy, increased lethargy
• Not wanting to be touched 
• Excessive licking 
• Excessive vocalization 
• Restlessness 
• Aggression 
• Changes in sleeping habits 

Physical signs:

• Tight or twitching muscles 
• Shaking or trembling 
• Arched back 
• Holding their head below their shoulders 
• Panting 

Sudden Behavior Changes

Often times my clients describe their dogs' behavior prior to more severe reactivity as a milder form of that reactivity. It has not appeared suddenly but more gradually. If your dog has drastically changed how they behave towards other dogs, people or interactions in general, this is a sign to see your veterinarian. Now, depending on your dogs activity level and lifestyle they may need to see a specialist if your general practice vet has not been able to find anything. It may mean seeing a mobility specialist.

Pain Trials

If your vet is having a hard time diagnosing any pain, they can offer (or you can ask) to do what's called a pain trial. Essentially, this is testing some pain medication on a trial basis to see how it affects your dog and their behavior.