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Why is my dog whining after an opioid pain shot? Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shiba Inu | Male | unneutered | 13 years and 6 months old | 28 lbs

My dog was given a shot for pain around noon today. It was an opioid. He has walked around the house whining since we got home. Should I be concerned?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 7th, 2017

Some dogs react to opioids with whining or crying. While this can be upsetting or a nuisance, it is nothing to worry about. It is not a sign of pain. You may want to put him in a quiet dark room so he can calm down and possibly sleep it off. I hope the vet gave you an NSAID or another pain medicine to follow with.

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