How Cold Weather Affects Your Dog’s Joints (and What You Can Do About It)
As the temperature drops, your dog might start feeling it too
Just like humans, dogs can experience increased stiffness and discomfort in their joints during colder months. You might notice your pup taking a little longer to get up in the morning, hesitating before jumping into the car, or walking more slowly after a frosty walk.
While this can be part of natural ageing, cold weather can make joint issues - especially arthritis - feel worse. Here’s why it happens, and what you can do to help your dog stay happy, warm, and mobile all winter long.
Why cold weather makes joints feel worse
When temperatures fall, muscles and tendons tighten, reducing flexibility and putting more strain on joints. At the same time, synovial fluid (the natural “lubricant” inside your dog’s joints) becomes thicker in the cold, which can make movement feel stiffer and more uncomfortable.
Cold weather can also intensify inflammation in dogs with arthritis or old injuries - much like how people with joint pain often say they can “feel it in their bones” when the weather changes.
Signs your dog’s joints are affected by the cold
Watch for subtle changes in your dog’s movement and behaviour:
- Stiffness or limping, especially after resting
- Reluctance to climb stairs, jump, or run
- Sleeping more than usual
- Licking or chewing at joints
- Irritability when touched around hips or shoulders
Even active dogs can show signs of mild stiffness in cold weather - especially larger breeds or those genetically prone to joint issues (like Huskies, Labradors, and German Shepherds).
How to support your dog’s joints during winter
1. Stay active, but adjust your walks
Shorter, more frequent walks are better than one long one in freezing conditions. A quick warm-up indoors (like gentle play or a few stretches) helps improve circulation and ease stiffness before heading outside.
2. Maintain a healthy weight
Excess weight puts extra stress on joints. Cold weather often means less exercise, so keeping portions in check is key to reducing joint strain.
3. Use non-slip surfaces at home
If your floors are slippery, lay down rugs or mats - especially near beds, food bowls, and steps - to help prevent slips and strain.
4. Support joint health from the inside out
A high-quality joint supplement can make a noticeable difference, especially in winter when stiffness tends to peak. Look for ingredients like:
- Green-lipped mussel – natural source of omega-3s to reduce inflammation
- Glucosamine & chondroitin – support cartilage repair and cushioning
- Boswellia serrata – a natural anti-inflammatory
- MSM & turmeric – promote mobility and reduce soreness
Consistency is key - supplements work best when given daily, not just when symptoms appear.
The takeaway
Cold weather can be tough on dogs’ joints, but a few simple steps can make a world of difference. Keep your dog comfortable, maintain gentle movement, and support their joints with nourishing ingredients year-round.
Your dog might not be able to tell you when they’re uncomfortable - but they’ll definitely show you when they start to feel better again.