What can you give a dog for pain?

Updated 24/04/2024

Whether you’re a loving pet parent or a caring dog sitter, seeing your furry friend in pain is heartbreaking (to say the least), and it’s probably got you thinking “What can you give a dog for pain?”.

But before we explore the options for easing your pup’s discomfort, it’s important to remember that a visit to the vet should be the first step if your pup’s in pain. Your vet will be able to give them a physical examination to get to the bottom of the issue and recommend the safest and most effective treatment. 

Now, let’s take a look at some of the signs to watch out for and the various pain relievers for dogs your vet might prescribe.  

Signs of pain in dogs

Your four-pawed pal may be in pain for a number of reasons from injury, infection, and disease to the aches and pains of simply getting older. Signs your furry friend’s in pain include:

• Restlessness
• Aggression
• Not wanting to be touched
• Panting
• Arched back
• Whimpering or howling
• Licking or chewing a wound
• Limping 
• Reluctance to move
• Eating less
  

Take your four-legged friend to the vet if they are suffering from any of the above symptoms. They will do a physical examination and may even take blood tests before recommending the correct prescription medication to relieve the discomfort.

What can you give a dog for pain? 

Only give your dog the following pain medications if they have been prescribed by a vet for their specific needs.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are the most common pain relievers for dogs, and vets typically prescribe them to reduce symptoms of swelling, stiffness, and chronic pain. They may also be given to dogs with conditions such as osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia, or to help with pain relief post-surgery. The following FDA-approved NSAIDs are safe for vets to prescribe to dogs: 

• Carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl)
• Deracoxib for dogs (Deramaxx or Doxidyl) 
• Firocoxib (Previcox, Firox)
• Meloxicam for dogs (Metacam)
• Grapiprant (Galliprant) 
• Robenacoxib (Onsior) 

These NSAIDs should be safe for dogs and effective when used according to the instructions. That being said, they can still cause the following side effects:

• Decreased appetite
• A disinterest in activity 
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloody or black stools 

In some cases, NSAIDs can also cause problems with the kidney, liver, or digestive system, and may even lead to kidney failure. Your vet may wish to take blood tests before prescribing NSAIDs to weigh up the risk of side effects, and this is just one of the reasons why it’s so important to speak to the vet rather than treating pooch pals yourself. Blood tests for monitoring may also be recommended during treatment.

Other pain relievers for dogs 

Occasionally, vets prescribe other forms of dog pain relief. Gabapentin may be given if your pup’s suffering from nerve damage, and tramadol is sometimes used to treat dogs with discomfort due to old age. 

Joint supplements 

Some vets may also suggest certain supplements, although there is little concrete evidence that they can be used to effectively reduce pain. Glucosamine and chondroitin may reduce swelling and help with cartilage repair in cases of mild pain. Fish oils (Omega 3 and 6) are also sometimes recommended for their anti-inflammatory properties and are available over-the-counter. 

Over-the-counter pain meds for dogs

Any form of pain relief for dogs without a vet prescription could pose a risk to your four-legged friend. Your vet is the best person to ask what pain reliever is safe for dogs, and they will be able to prescribe the correct course of treatment along with the appropriate dosage and how to administer it most effectively. 

Managing pain without medication

Vets sometimes recommend other ways of managing pain either alongside medication or instead of it, particularly if pups aren’t getting on well with their prescription. The following treatments may be advised:

• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic care
• Underwater treadmill rehab (hydrotherapy)
• Massages
• Weight management 
• Environmental modifications such as ramps

What to do if your dog’s in pain

It’s extremely important to speak to your vet before giving your dog medication of any kind. If you think your furry friend’s in pain, give your vet the following information:

• A detailed explanation of your pooch pal’s symptoms.
• Tell them if your pup has any conditions (past and present), especially if they have a history of digestive problems.
• Tell your vet about any other medication your dog is currently taking.

Once your vet has prescribed the right treatment for your dog’s pain, keep an eye out for any unusual reactions and side effects, and don’t hesitate to call them if anything seems off. It may take a while for the medication to kick in and you might even need to try multiple treatments, but your vet will be able to give you guidance on making your pooch pal more comfortable.

Meet our veterinary expert, Greg

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr Greg Steele MA VETMB MRCVS. A mixed vet working in the UK since qualifying from Cambridge University in 2015. Greg enjoys working with all species of animals in all settings, but equally takes pride in communication and education of clients too. He lives with his wife and their cat, and enjoys a variety of sports, gardening, and the great outdoors.