The sound can break your heart. Some dogs remain stoically quiet when they’re hurting but others, especially young dogs who have not experienced physical discomfort, may whimper and cry when they’re feeling pain. Your presence may provide comfort and lead them to stop whining. It does not, however, mean they are no longer hurting. “Whimpering or increased vocalisations, which can be intermittent, constant, or when touched, can indicate pain. But vocalisation can be deceiving – some owners think a quiet pet is not in pain. Just because your dog is not whimpering, does not mean he or she is not in pain,” says veterinarian Heidi Cooley. If your dog has just had surgery and is whimpering, make sure you are giving him the correct amount of pain medication. If there is no clear reason why he is crying out, a vet’s immediate attention is imperative. “As a pet owner, it’s important to be in tune with your pet’s behaviour and habits and to take action when you notice or suspect something is ‘off.’ There are various causes of pain for pets, and some can be quite serious. So after determining how to tell if a dog is in pain, the next thing to do is speak with your veterinarian. They can be helpful in evaluating your pet’s level of pain and helping you find ways to relieve it. The earlier you catch and address potential signs of pain or illness with your veterinarian, the better your chances are of getting your pet back to a comfortable place,” says Dr Cooley.