How Does Wintery Weather Impact Dog Mobility?
The old saying ‘I can feel it in my bones’ is often used when arthritic people sense the change in weather on their joints. This can be the same for dogs who also suffer with joint and muscle problems. As the temperatures drop, the damp and cold creeps in and winter takes hold, it’s not just humans who feel the chill – our furry friends do too. Understanding how cold and damp weather affects a dog’s mobility is crucial for ensuring their continued health and comfort. Appreciating the impact of chilly climes on your dog’s joints and overall mobility can help you take measures to keep your dog comfortable, happy and active now that winter is upon us.
The Effect of Wintery Weather on Dog Joints
Most joints are surrounded by a fluid filled capsule as well as being attached to ligaments and muscle (via tendons). Wintery weather – cold temperatures and/or damp conditions – can significantly impact your dog’s joints, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. There are several theories as to why this may happen. Changes in the weather conditions (drops in temperature, damp, swings in barometric pressure) could:
- affect the size of the fluid capsules around the joints
- cause your tendons, muscles, and any scar tissue to contract
- make the fluid within joint capsule thicker
All these effects can lead to greater joint stiffness and pain. As a result, you may notice that your dog is stiffer getting up and/or less eager to go for walks or play.
Signs of Weather Induced Mobility Issues in Dogs
Many dogs can sense the change in the air currents a few days before the actual weather system arrives. Perhaps they are detecting the change in terms of air pressures, temperature or humidity. If the weather is stable, we tend to find that the dog is stable too. On the other hand, if the weather remains inconsistent, the dog’s muscles and joints can play up.
It’s important to be vigilant for signs that your dog’s mobility is being affected by wintery conditions. Common signs to watch for include:
- Limping – noticeable limping or favouring one leg can indicate joint discomfort.
- Stiffness – difficulty in standing up or moving around, especially after resting.
- Reluctance to move – a dog that is hesitant to go outside or seems lazy may be experiencing joint pain.
- Yelping or whining – vocal signs of distress when moving can indicate pain.
Keep an eye out for these behaviours, especially after exposure to cold weather as they are strong indicators that your dog is uncomfortable in some way.
Breeds and Conditions Predisposed to Cold Weather Mobility Issues
It has been suggested that certain dog breeds and conditions are more susceptible to mobility issues in cold weather. In our experience weather does not discriminate. However, breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers can be more prone to conditions like arthritis and hip dysplasia, which can be exacerbated by cold/damp weather. Additionally, dogs with pre-existing conditions such as arthritis will feel the effects of the winter more acutely. Owners of these breeds and those dealing with these conditions should take extra precautions, such as providing adequate ‘clothing’ and maintaining a warm environment. Care should also be taken on the terrain you and your dog are waking on, for example frozen uneven fields, muddy fields and slippery frosty paths that can easily cause an injury.
What can be done to help our dogs – preventative measures dog owners can take
Preventing cold and wintery weather from impacting your dog’s joints involves several proactive steps:
- Ask your vet for pain relief medication or supplements – anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers can help manage joint pain. Supplements such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin can also support overall joint health and alleviate symptoms.
- Apply ice – if your dog looks tender, you can ice the joints, as ice can give both pain relief and reduce swelling (always wrap whatever you use in a dry tea towel).
- Apply heat – if your dog is stiff, you can use heat, which can give some pain relief and help relax tight muscles.
- Ensure your dog is wearing proper ‘clothing’ – dog jumpers, boots and jackets are not just a fashion statement. They are functional as they keep rain off the dog’s fur and helps keep them warm during any outdoor activities.
- Create a warm environment – ensuring your home is warm and draught free can make a big difference.
- Cut walks short – when the weather is particularly cold & wet, you can perhaps reduce the length of the walks and do them little and often instead.
- Avoid muddy/frozen surfaces, so neither you nor your dog slip.
- Massage – consider massage and stretching at home if you are not able to take your dog outside. This can reduce muscle tension as well as maintaining your dog’s muscle and joint flexibility and mobility.
- Weight management – we often compensate for shorter walks with an extra treat or two, especially at Christmas, so just be mindful of this and avoid overfeeding your dog.
By taking these measures, you can significantly reduce the chances that wintery weather will negatively impact your dog’s joints.
How we can help at WitsEnd
Here at WitsEnd, we offer and range of services to help improve and maintain your dog’s mobility
- We can offer and demonstrate massage, along with stretching for you to carry out at home
- We can show you the best way to walk your dog, to help build and maintain muscle mass
- We offer laser therapy – excellent for providing pain relief and reducing inflammation
- For dogs that are capable, we can offer water treadmill and hydrotherapy
As winter approaches, it is vital to monitor and maintain your dog’s mobility. Being aware of how cold and damp weather conditions can impact a dog’s mobility, recognising the signs of discomfort, paying caution to the terrain, and taking preventative measures can make all the difference. Always consult a vet if you notice any signs of mobility issues to ensure your dog gets the appropriate care and treatment.
Have you noticed changes in your dog’s mobility with the cold weather? WitsEnd can help you explore treatment options such as physiotherapy, laser therapy and hydrotherapy ensuring your dog spends the winter months as comfortably as possible.
Our expert team at WitsEnd are on hand to help. To book an appointment or for more information, please call us on 0116 244 2455.