How To Identify If Your Dog Is Struggling With Stomach Pain

Ever notice your pup having one of those “off” days where they’re just not quite themselves, and you can’t help but wonder what’s up? We’ve all been there—watching our best friend act a little differently and feeling that mix of worry and curiosity. So, here are 15 signs that might indicate a stomach ache. However, always consult a vet to be sure of the issues.

Changes In Eating Habits

When your dog suddenly shows little interest in food or refuses to eat altogether, a stomach ache could be the cause. Dogs in pain may avoid eating to prevent further discomfort. Hence, if your dog constantly avoids meals, it’s a clear sign to assess their health and check for underlying issues.

Unusual Licking Or Biting

Dogs often resort to licking or biting at their paws or abdominal area when they’re experiencing internal pain. This behavior can seem like a harmless grooming activity. However, when it occurs more frequently or intensely, it may indicate that your dog is trying to soothe or distract themselves from the discomfort.

Restlessness And Unease

A restless dog may pace, pant, or be unable to settle. When stomach pain strikes, dogs often become agitated and uncomfortable. If your usually calm dog can’t get comfortable, it’s a clear indicator that something’s causing them distress. Act quickly to assess the situation.

Whining Or Whimpering

Vocalizations, like whining or whimpering, might be your dog’s way of telling you they’re in pain. This vocal distress, often accompanied by other physical signs, should never be ignored. Your dog is likely trying to communicate their discomfort, so watch closely for these signs.

Hunched Or Crouching Posture

Dogs naturally protect themselves when in pain, and a hunched or crouching posture is a clear sign that your dog is experiencing abdominal discomfort. When a dog’s stomach hurts, they may instinctively curl up or hold their body in a more guarded position, as this helps minimize pressure on the stomach area.

Excessive Drooling

Increased drooling is a common response to nausea or digestive upset in dogs. If your dog suddenly begins drooling excessively without any apparent cause, it could be linked to stomach pain or discomfort. In some cases, it could also signal the presence of toxins or foreign objects in the digestive system.

Loss Of Appetite

A significant loss of appetite is often one of the earliest signs of stomach discomfort. It’s important to differentiate between a temporary decrease in appetite and a consistent refusal to eat, as the latter might indicate a more serious issue, such as an obstruction or infection in the digestive tract. 

Abdominal Sensitivity

When your dog’s stomach is sore, they may show signs of abdominal sensitivity, such as pulling away when their belly is gently touched or tensed muscles in the abdominal area. Gently feeling around their abdomen can help you identify tenderness or swelling, but avoid applying too much pressure.

Increased Gas Or Bloating

A bloated stomach can make your dog feel very uncomfortable and cause them to become visibly distressed. You might notice that their stomach seems tight or swollen, or they might start passing gas more frequently than usual. This could be due to indigestion, eating too quickly, or a more serious issue.

Vomiting Or Diarrhea

Vomiting and diarrhea are two of the most common and immediate signs of gastrointestinal distress. When your dog experiences these symptoms, it indicates that their digestive system is struggling, possibly from a stomach ache, infection, or ingestion of something irritating.

Behavioral Changes

Dogs in pain may become unusually irritable or withdrawn. If your happy-go-lucky dog suddenly avoids interaction or snaps when touched, it could be a sign of stomach discomfort. That’s why recognizing shifts in behavior is key to identifying hidden discomfort and addressing the underlying issue quickly.

Excessive Sleeping

Pain often leads to a reduction in energy levels, so if your dog is sleeping more than usual, it could be an indication of stomach discomfort. However, if excessive sleeping is paired with other symptoms like vomiting, it’s a sign of more serious issues and should be addressed immediately.

Panting And Rapid Breathing

Panting can be a dog’s natural response to physical pain, anxiety, or discomfort. Keep an eye out for any increase in breathing rate, particularly when your dog is not engaged in any physical activity. Overly rapid breathing in the absence of exertion is a clear sign that something is wrong, and a visit to the vet is warranted.

Dehydration And Dry Nose

Dogs suffering from gastrointestinal issues may not drink enough water, leading to signs of dehydration. A dry nose, coupled with a lack of moisture in the gums and mouth, can be an early warning sign. Other indicators include lethargy, sunken eyes, and reduced skin elasticity.

Changes In Stool Consistency

Loose stools, particularly those with a different color or an unpleasant odor, can signal that your dog’s gastrointestinal system is struggling to process food or expel waste. On the other hand, constipation may indicate a blockage or an inability to pass food through the digestive tract properly.