Can dogs fake injuries?

Has your pooch suddenly developed a 'limp' or been unable to walk on one foot for no apparent reason? It's actually possible that they are faking an injury for attention… and greyhounds are well-known for doing it!

Dogs are super intelligent creatures, not only can they be taught to sit, stay, lay down or do complex tricks, but they’re also capable of teaching themselves to fake injuries or pain when they want your attention or to get their own way.

The behaviour is learned over time, perhaps they hurt themselves in the past which generated a swift reaction from you (like rushing over to check that they are okay). From this experience, they can learn that injuries equate to attention, love and care which can be used to manipulate you in future to get the outcome that they want.

This behaviour usually is completely harmless, but it is essential that you determine whether your pooch is actually hurt or just faking an injury.

Often, dogs will only continue their act when they know you are watching and as soon as they're out of your gaze they will revert to their normal behaviour. Try and watch them in secret (from another room or window) to see if their injury persists when they are not in your company.

Sometimes dogs can also forget their so-called 'injury' and go from limping to running in 2 seconds flat - this is also a sign that they have been faking the whole time.

If you have caught them red-handed, the best thing to do to break the cycle of behaviour is to simply ignore them. Don’t pay any attention to them or fuss over the ‘injury’ so they no longer associate faking pain with love and attention.

On the other hand, if your pooches' pain is persistent and their condition deteriorates, it’s really important to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible (even if you didn't witness the injury or you suspect that they are faking).