Which of the following is a sign of painful grooming experiences?

• A. Purring
• B. Trembling
• C. Wagging tail
• D. Licking lips

Answer: (B)

Trembling during grooming is a strong sign that the dog is experiencing pain or strong distress in that moment. When touch becomes uncomfortable, the body may shake as a protective reaction or out of fear, so this physical response directly reflects discomfort during the process. Purring isn’t a dog sound at all, so it doesn’t apply here. A wagging tail can mean many things—excitement, reassurance, or anxiety—and isn’t a reliable indicator of pain. Licking the lips can signal stress or nausea, but it isn’t as specific to pain from grooming as trembling. So trembling best flags that something hurts or feels unsafe during grooming. If you notice it, pause, check for painful spots, give a rest, adjust your technique, and consult a veterinarian if the dog consistently shows distress during grooming, especially in seniors with arthritis or dental issues.