Sore Muscles in Dogs

Dogs are such willing companions that sometimes they can over extend themselves, trying to make their owners happy. Knowing the causes, symptoms and solutions to dog muscle soreness is important for all dog owners.

  1. Causes

    • Sore muscles in dogs can be caused by a variety of issues, such as exercising a dog too intensely. Just like humans, dogs that have been idle too long have to slowly build up to more intense exercise. Another cause can be exercising a dog on the wrong type of surface, such as jogging with a dog on pavement. The Dog Channel websites states that "Concrete is unforgiving and repeated jarring on it can damage bones and joints."

    Symptoms

    • Dogs with sore muscles will exhibit varied symptoms such as limping, moving very slowly, reluctance to get up or lay down or even whimpering due to pain.

    Prevention/Solution

    • To prevent muscle soreness in your dog, exercise your pet in grass or soft surfaces, for appropriate times given its age and current health level.

      Giving a dog with sore muscles a body massage can help alleviate the pain and loosen stiffened muscles. Anti-inflammatory medicines are available for dogs, but may only be obtained from a veterinarian.