20/02/2026
🐶Behavioural Changes & Discomfort🐴
🤕When Behaviour Changes Are a Sign of Discomfort
During winter, discomfort often presents as behavioural change rather than obvious lameness.
Common signs can include:
Dogs🐶:
• Slowing down in the house ok or on a walk walk
• Reluctant to go on walks
• Hesitating with stairs, getting in/out of the car, getting on the couch.
Horses🐴:
• Feeling stiff them working
• Resistance to work
• Less or unwilling to work
Less obvious signs:
Dogs🐶:
• Becoming irritable or withdrawn.
• Avoiding touch — dogs may move away or try to redirect where you’re petting. For example, if you touch a spot on their back and they roll over “for a belly rub,” it can be easy to misread — they might actually be deflecting the contact, not inviting more.
Horses🐴:
• Tail swishing or ear pinning
• Changes in attitude under saddle
• Changes in attitude to being tacked up (this can be down to poor fitting tack, keep up to date with fittings).
Behaviour is a form of communication. Physiotherapy helps identify and address physical factors that may be contributing to these changes. When an animal is uncomfortable they will change how they move and act(this can be very subtle). Keep an eye on every and all changes, don't brush them off, your horse and dogs are ALWAYS communicating.
If you would like to book an appointment or would like some advice do not hesitate to contact us on:
📞 Text/WhatsApp : 07850943003
📩 Email: [email protected]
🌐 For further information and forms visit our website: www.m-vetphysio.co.uk
