After reading the excellent Dr. Petty’s Pain Relief for Dogs, by Dr. Mike Petty, a “pain vet” working with cutting-edge research to help relieve canine pain, there were standout parts we just had to share with you, namely: age should never be used as an excuse for an animal in pain; our pets feel as much or more pain than we do; and there is a treatment out there for every dog.

As your dog’s foremost companion, you have an advantage over even her vet in assessing whether your dog is in chronic pain. Talk to your vet if you see any of these 15 symptoms of pain.
#1Reluctance to walk on slippery surfaces.
#2Going up or down stairs.
#3 ecoming selective about what to jump up onto or down from.
#4Attempting to stand up with the front legs first.
#5The simple task of lying down may actually become difficult.
#6Running and jumping activities become more limited.
#7Placing an abnormal amount of weight on his front legs.
#8Abnormal wear on nails.
#9Unwillingness to initiate play or other social interactions.
#10Aggression toward other animals where no aggression existed before.
#11   Aversion to being petted or brushed.
#12Disruption in sleep patterns.
#13Stiffness.
#14A decrease in appetite.
#15House-training issues.

– See more at: http://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/15-signs-your-dog-pain/91754#sthash.i7JUGy2k.dpuf