Understanding the Link Between Chronic Pain and Behaviour in Dogs

Changes in a dog’s behaviour are often the first visible signs of chronic pain. Discomfort may present as increased irritability, withdrawal, reluctance to be touched, or sudden behavioural issues such as noise phobia, aggression or anxiety. These signs are frequently misattributed to training or temperament problems, when in fact, pain may be the underlying cause.

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That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Move More Veterinary Physiotherapy. Together, we’re offering a unique, integrated service that not only addresses behavioural challenges but also targets the physical discomfort that may be causing them. Let us help your dog feel better—inside and out.

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Chronic Pain and Behaviour in Dogs

Many behaviour problems in dogs can stem from undiagnosed or ongoing physical pain. Because dogs can’t tell us when something hurts, discomfort often shows up as changes in behaviour. Understanding and addressing the root cause—both physical and emotional—is key to improving your dog’s quality of life..

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Common Conditions and Their Behavioural Impact

 

Arthritis & Joint Pain

May cause reluctance to move, irritability, or snapping when touched. Dogs may appear “lazy” or “grumpy,” when in fact they’re avoiding painful movement.

 

Hip Dysplasia

This developmental condition can lead to chronic hip discomfort, causing dogs to bunny-hop, resist jumping or climbing, and show signs of low mood or frustration.

 

Cruciate Ligament Injury

A torn or strained cruciate ligament often results in lameness, instability, and pain. Behaviourally, this can lead to reduced activity, guarding behaviours, and increased anxiety.

 

Spinal Issues (e.g., IVDD, spondylosis)

Back and neck pain can make dogs wary of touch, reluctant to play, or unusually tense or reactive. They may also vocalise unexpectedly or struggle with stairs and surfaces.

 

Muscle Tension or Compensation Injuries

Ongoing discomfort from compensating for an injury elsewhere can cause stiffness, pacing, or behavioural withdrawal. You may notice your dog avoiding certain movements or being unusually clingy.

 

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How Behavioural Advice Can Help

Interpreting Pain-Related Behaviour

Many dogs express pain through behavioural changes—growling, snapping, hiding, or seeming anxious. Behavioural guidance helps identify these signs accurately, reducing miscommunication and conflict.

 

Building Positive Associations

After periods of pain or restricted movement, dogs may develop fear or resistance toward handling, exercise, or even certain environments. We help them relearn confidence and safety at their own pace.

 

Supporting Routine & Recovery

We help owners adjust routines, manage the home environment, and implement enrichment that supports healing—both mentally and physically.

 

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Pain Relief and Comfort

Hands-on techniques such as massage, stretching, and laser therapy can significantly reduce discomfort from musculoskeletal conditions.

 

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Post-injury or post-surgery, tailored physiotherapy helps restore movement, rebuild strength, and prevent compensatory injuries.

 

Improved Function and Longevity

Strengthening key muscle groups, improving posture, and enhancing joint mobility all contribute to better quality of life—and often, better behaviour.

 

Treating the Whole Dog: Body and Mind

Pain and behaviour are closely linked. That’s why we take an integrated approach, combining behavioural expertise with veterinary physiotherapy to address the full picture—not just the symptoms. The result is a happier, healthier dog who feels better, moves better, and behaves more like themselves again.

 

Why a Combined Approach Works Best: Behaviourist & Veterinary Physiotherapist

When it comes to resolving behavioural issues in dogs, addressing the whole dog—both body and mind—is essential. Increasingly, research and clinical experience show that many behaviour problems are linked to underlying physical discomfort. That’s why working with a team that includes both a qualified behaviourist and a veterinary physiotherapist offers the most comprehensive, effective, and compassionate care.

 

Behaviour Reflects Physical State

Dogs can’t tell us when they’re in pain—but they often show it through their behaviour. A dog that becomes reactive, withdrawn, anxious, or aggressive may not be “naughty” or “difficult,” but instead struggling with undiagnosed pain or discomfort. Conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, cruciate injuries, and spinal issues can all cause significant stress and behavioural changes.

Without identifying and managing the physical component, behaviour modification alone may be limited in its success—or even unfair to the dog.

 

The Power of Physiotherapy

A veterinary physiotherapist plays a critical role in:

 

• Identifying musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction

• Providing targeted treatment to relieve discomfort and restore movement

• Supporting recovery after surgery or injury

• Improving posture, gait, and mobility to reduce long-term strain

 

When pain is addressed, many behaviour problems improve naturally—and dogs become more receptive to training, learning, and engagement.

 

Working Together for Better Outcomes

• A collaborative approach between behaviourist and physiotherapist allows for:

• Accurate assessment of the dog’s physical and emotional wellbeing

• Tailored treatment plans that address both pain and behavioural needs

• Safer, more effective behaviour modification, because physical limitations are respected

• Faster, longer-lasting results due to reduced stress and improved comfort

 

The behaviourist ensures the dog’s emotional state is supported, while the physiotherapist ensures their body is functioning as well as possible. Together, they provide a truly holistic care plan.

 

A Compassionate, Evidence-Based Approach

This kind of integrated care recognises that behaviour is never just about “training”—it’s about health, communication, comfort, and trust. By treating both the physical and behavioural aspects of a problem, we can help dogs thrive—not just cope.

If you're facing behavioural challenges with your dog, especially alongside signs of discomfort or a known medical history, a combined team approach offers the best chance of real, lasting improvement.

 

The Value of Collaborative Work Between Behaviourists and Veterinary Physiotherapists

 

Collaborative care between canine behaviourists and veterinary physiotherapists offers significant benefits, particularly for dogs with complex needs. For some dogs, the physical rehabilitation process can be hindered by fear, anxiety, or aggression—often directed at unfamiliar people or clinical environments. In these cases, integrating behavioural support ensures that physiotherapy is not only effective but also humane and stress-free.

For example, a dog recovering from orthopaedic surgery may require regular handling and therapeutic exercises. If that dog is fearful of strangers or resists being touched, progress can stall. A behaviourist can develop desensitisation and plans to help the dog accept handling and interaction with the physiotherapist, while also ensuring that stress signals are recognised and respected.

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Similarly, dogs with chronic pain may associate touch or movement with discomfort, leading to defensive behaviours. Working jointly, the behaviourist can help interpret the dog's emotional responses and guide adaptation of techniques to reduce fear and promote trust.

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This multidisciplinary approach not only improves outcomes for physical recovery but also supports emotional welfare, ensuring that interventions are tailored to each dog's unique physical and psychological profile. It fosters trust, reduces stress-related setbacks, and ultimately enhances the dog’s overall quality of life.

Of course, an additional benefit is that you don’t need to pay two professionals to work with your dog – we work as a team!

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To learn more or arrange an assessment, please contact our team.

Please note, we will require a veterinary referral if your dog has already been diagnosed with a condition.

 

Initial collaborative consultation at your home - £110 plus travel if out of the Kirton/Holbeach areas

You will receive a written training plan for the behaviour and physiotherapy .

Follow up sessions:

Vet physiotherapy or behaviour - £50

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