With mild discomfort, animals usually don’t show any signs of trouble, but if a dog has severe abdominal pain, they may whine, fidget, refuse touch, and even try to bite their owner. Don’t scold them for behavioral changes; it’s best to consult a veterinarian to help.

How to tell if your dog has a stomach ache: symptoms and signs

A pet can’t directly communicate pain. You can tell if your dog is experiencing abdominal pain by the following signs:

• Vocalization. Abdominal pain can be so excruciating that a dog will try to communicate it by whining or howling.
• Refusal to be touched. If a dog has abdominal pain, it may avoid touching the area, growl, and even attempt to bite the owner. This is especially important if the pet previously adored affection.
• Behavior changes. If your dog becomes restless, refuses to play, and tries to lie down in a quieter, calmer place, or, conversely, can’t find a comfortable position, they may be in pain or discomfort.
• Loss of appetite. If your pet has a stomachache, she may refuse to eat.
• Tension. If a dog feels discomfort or pain in its abdomen, it will lie down so that its belly doesn’t touch the floor or its bed. The pet will lean on its elbows and chest, shifting its weight forward.
• Aggression. Pain often leads to anxiety and even aggression, especially if it is severe.
• Lying on one side. Some dogs, when in severe pain, lie on their side, pant heavily with their mouth open, and become unresponsive to their owner.

Reasons why a dog might have a stomachache

Pain in animals can be caused by a variety of conditions. It’s impossible to determine the cause at home. The following conditions can lead to abdominal pain and discomfort:

• Gastrointestinal diseases. Pain can be caused by problems with the stomach, intestines, pancreas, and gallbladder. In addition to discomfort, the animal may experience vomiting and diarrhea, and weight loss. The pet may refuse to eat.
• Urogenital diseases. Kidney and bladder problems can cause abdominal pain, along with difficulty urinating, vomiting, and loss of appetite. In some cases, your pet may lose weight. Diseases of the ovaries, uterus, or testicles can also cause abdominal discomfort.
• Spinal disorders. These can cause pain in the abdomen, back, and limbs. Dogs with spinal disorders often become less active, refusing to play or exercise.
• Injuries. Hematomas, abdominal contusions, and damage to internal organs cause pain and discomfort in the animal.

What to do if your dog has a stomachache: what can you give him?

If your pet has a stomachache, don’t give them medication. This could mask the symptoms and even worsen the condition. To help your pet, provide the following:

• Peace. Don’t force movement and activity on your dog. Instead, try to create a calm environment for him.
• Hunger. Avoid feeding your pet if it has a stomachache, especially if you plan to visit the vet within 12 to 16 hours.
• Affection. When a dog is in pain, it feels fear. At that moment, it needs its owner’s support.
• Veterinary care. If your pet has a stomachache, it’s important to take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible (2).

Diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal problems in dogs

To determine the cause of abdominal pain in a dog, a full examination is performed, which includes:

• urine and blood tests ;
• Ultrasound and X-ray of the abdominal cavity;
• MRI or CT scan of the spine.

Most often, gastrointestinal problems are the cause of discomfort. To help the animal, the veterinarian prescribes a special diet, deworming, antibiotics, or surgery. Everything depends on the final diagnosis.

Questions and Answers

We have collected answers to popular questions.

What to do if a puppy has a stomachache?

Abdominal discomfort and pain in babies are often caused by a change in diet, foreign objects in the gastrointestinal tract, or worms. In this case, it’s best to consult a veterinarian immediately.

Can a dog hide stomach pain?

Pets often tolerate pain until the very end. The only sign of discomfort is a slight change in behavior. Therefore, if you suspect your dog is behaving unusually, it’s best to consult a veterinarian.