How to Prevent Common Winter Injuries and Keep Your Dog Moving Comfortably All Season
When winter weather rolls in, our dogs feel it too! Just like people, dogs are prone to muscle strains, joint pain, and soft tissue injuries when the temperature drops and surfaces get slick. The good news? With a few easy precautions, you can help your dog stay strong, active, and injury-free all season long.
Many canine rehabilitation specialists see an uptick in injuries during the colder months — especially from slips on ice, repetitive strain from running in snow, or overuse from too much winter play too soon. Here’s what to watch for and how to help your dog enjoy a safe, happy winter.
Common Wintertime Dog Injuries
1. Shoulder Strain
Your dog’s shoulders carry about 60% of their body weight, making them especially vulnerable when surfaces are icy or uneven. A sudden slip can overstretch or strain these muscles. If you notice limping, stiffness, or reluctance to climb stairs, it’s time for a rest and evaluation.
2. Hip Flexor (Iliopsoas) Strain
The hip flexor is a core stabilizing muscle that helps your dog run, jump, and navigate uneven terrain. Deep snow and cold conditions can fatigue this muscle quickly, leading to soreness or even chronic injury if not addressed.
3. Knee (Stifle) Injuries
The ligaments that stabilize your dog’s knees — especially the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) — are prone to tears when dogs twist, sprint, or lose traction on ice. Even one bad step can cause long-term knee instability.
Walking in Icy or Mixed Conditions
Your safety comes first! If you slip, your dog is at risk too. Always wear shoes or boots with solid traction before heading out.
- Practice loose-leash walking ahead of time. A dog who pulls increases the risk of falls for both of you.
- Add traction to your dog’s boots. Stick coarse sandpaper to the bottom of regular booties to help prevent slipping. Replace as needed.
- Avoid black ice or areas where meltwater refreezes overnight.
Playing in Fresh Snow
Watching your dog leap through fresh powder is pure joy — but that joy can quickly turn to injury if they overdo it.
- Ease into deep snow play. If the snow is wrist-deep or higher, start with short sessions to let their muscles adapt.
- Watch for fatigue. Overused muscles are prone to strain or even chronic tendon injury.
- Check what’s beneath the snow. Rocks, sticks, and hidden debris can cause cuts or sprains.
- Use booties to protect paws from sharp ice and unseen hazards.
Crusty snow is especially dangerous for “post-holing,” when your dog’s legs suddenly break through the surface layer. This can cause knee ligament tears or wrist hyperextensions — both of which may take months to fully recover from – or worse, surgical repair.
Other Winter Safety Concerns
Winter brings its own hidden dangers for dogs. Keep these in mind:
- Ice Melt and Antifreeze: Many products are toxic to pets. Always rinse paws after walks.
- Partially Frozen Lakes or Rivers: Keep dogs leashed — thin ice is unpredictable and dangerous.
- Car Safety: Use a crash-tested crate or harness in icy conditions.
- Frostbite and Hypothermia: Short-haired breeds, puppies, and senior dogs are especially at risk.
- Wildlife Traps in Central Oregon: Unfortunately, traps are still used on public lands. Always keep your dog in sight or on a long line.
📹 Watch this helpful video on safely removing a wildlife trap.
(Before attempting removal, make sure your dog is leashed and, if necessary, use a shoelace as a makeshift muzzle.)
Winter Trail Preparedness
Always be ready for the worst conditions when heading out — daylight hours are short, and severe weather can set in quickly.
Bring these essentials every time you head out with your dog:
- Booties and a warm jacket
- Extra snacks and water
- A leash (or two)
- A whistle for you and a bell for your dog
- A brightly colored harness or jacket (orange is best!)
- A fully stocked first-aid kit
- A communication plan — tell someone where you’re going and stick to it
Final Thoughts
Cold weather doesn’t have to slow your dog down. With a little preparation, mindful activity, and attention to changes in their movement or behavior, you can keep your dog happy and healthy all winter long.
If your dog seems sore, stiff, or hesitant to move after a winter adventure, schedule an evaluation with a canine rehabilitation specialist. Early attention helps prevent small strains from becoming long-term injuries — so your best friend can get back to doing what they love most: exploring by your side.