Never give your dog human pain medication
The most important rule: do not give a dog ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin or acetaminophen (paracetamol) unless a veterinarian has specifically told you to. These can cause stomach ulcers, kidney damage, liver damage or other serious harm in dogs, and older dogs are often more vulnerable. Even products that seem mild may be unsafe for your dog.
If you think your dog is hurting right now, call your vet or an emergency clinic. They can tell you what is safe in your situation.
How to tell an older dog is in pain
Dogs rarely cry out when they hurt. More often the signs are quiet changes in behavior:
- Slower movement, stiffness, limping (see when to see a vet for limping) or reluctance to climb stairs
- Trouble getting up or lying down
- Licking or chewing at a particular spot
- Eating less, or dropping food (which can point to dental pain)
- Withdrawing, hiding, or becoming irritable when touched
- Restlessness or difficulty settling
- Changed posture, such as a hunched back
- Panting more than usual
Panting, restlessness and trouble lying down
Dogs do pant when they are in pain, even when it is not hot and they have not exercised. If your dog pants at rest, paces at night, or seems unable to get comfortable, pain is one possible reason, along with heart, breathing or other problems. See our article on breathing problems in old age for signs that need quicker attention.
A dog who seems to hurt when lying down may have sore joints, back or spine pain, or another condition. Arthritis in the back legs often shows up as difficulty rising, a stiff gait or sagging hindquarters, but it needs a vet exam to confirm.
Whining or crying
New whining, yelping when touched or crying out should be taken seriously. Pain is one common cause, but confusion, anxiety and other illnesses are also possible. Sudden, severe crying warrants a prompt vet visit.
Vet-prescribed pain relief options
The right choice depends on the cause of the pain and your dog’s overall health. Common categories vets may use include:
- NSAIDs formulated for dogs. Often used for arthritis and other inflammatory pain. They need veterinary supervision, and vets generally recommend monitoring, including blood tests, with long-term use.
- Other pain medicines. Some medicines target nerve-related or stubborn chronic pain and may be combined with others.
- Injectable treatments. Used for osteoarthritis pain in some dogs.
- Treatment of the underlying problem. For example, a painful tooth, injury or growth may need its own treatment.
Do not adjust amounts or combine medicines without your vet’s direction, particularly if your dog is already on other drugs.
Supplements and non-drug support
Many owners ask about omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin, green-lipped mussel and similar products. Some may offer modest help for joint comfort, but they should not replace proper pain control, and quality varies. Discuss any supplement with your vet first. See our guides to natural inflammation remedies for dogs and turmeric for dogs.
Other supportive options include physical rehabilitation, gentle massage, acupuncture or laser therapy where available and recommended by a vet.
Comfort changes at home
- Provide a thick, supportive bed away from drafts
- Place rugs or mats on slippery floors
- Use ramps instead of stairs or jumps
- Keep walks short, gentle and regular rather than occasional and intense
- Help your dog reach food and water without strain
- Keep your dog lean, as extra weight adds stress to sore joints
For a fuller look at joint disease specifically, read our article on arthritis treatment in dogs.
Why pain should be investigated, not just managed
Pain is a symptom. In older dogs it can come from arthritis, dental disease, spinal problems, injuries or cancer, among other causes. Masking it without a diagnosis can delay care. A veterinary exam, and sometimes X-rays or blood work, helps find the cause and check which medicines are safe for your dog. Senior blood work is often part of that process.
When to see a vet urgently
Seek prompt veterinary care if your dog:
- Cries out, yelps or screams in pain
- Cannot stand or walk, or suddenly drags the back legs
- Has a swollen, hard belly or repeated vomiting
- Is breathing hard, has pale or blue gums, or collapses
- Has swallowed human medication
For a broader overview of conditions that can cause pain and other changes in older dogs, see senior dog health issues.
FAQs
What can I give my dog for pain if I cannot get to the vet right away?
Do not give human medicine. Call your vet or a poison helpline straight away: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline, (855) 764-7661. Both are open 24 hours a day and may charge a fee. Meanwhile, keep the dog quiet and comfortable.
What can help besides medication?
Weight control, gentle exercise, soft bedding, non-slip flooring, ramps and rehabilitation can all help, ideally alongside veterinary pain control.