What to do if Your Dog Strains a Muscle

Just like humans, dogs can experience muscle strains from overexertion, awkward movements, or even simple day-to-day activities. As you know from experience, a strained muscle can easily develop into a painful, ongoing issue if it goes untreated, leading to joint issues down the line.

Dogs are no different, and it's our job as pet owners to monitor their behavior to ensure their small pulls and strains don't evolve into something worse.

If your dog suddenly starts limping, hesitates to jump on the couch, or seems stiff after playtime, a muscle strain could be the culprit. Fortunately, there are a number of things we as dog owners can do to help our dogs heal and keep them mobile and happy for years to come.

We just have to be vigilant and know what to do when issues arise. So, let's take a look at muscle strains in dogs & how to help when they occur.

What Is a Muscle Strain in Dogs?
Common Causes of Muscle Strains
Signs Your Dog May Have a Muscle Strain
How Vets Diagnose Muscle Strains
At-Home Care for Mild Muscle Strains
When to Call the Vet
Preventing Muscle Strains in Dogs
Supporting Long-Term Mobility

Just like humans, dogs can experience muscle strains from overexertion, awkward movements, or even simple day-to-day activities. As you know from experience, a strained muscle can easily develop into a painful, ongoing issue if it goes untreated, leading to <a href="https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-health/joint-injuries-in-dogs" title="This article discusses joint injuries in dogs, rather than muscle injuries.">joint issues down the line</a>.
Dogs are no different, and it's our job as pet owners to monitor their behavior to ensure their small pulls and strains don't evolve into something worse.
If your dog suddenly starts limping, hesitates to jump on the couch, or seems stiff after playtime, a muscle strain could be the culprit. Fortunately, there are a number of things we as dog owners can do to help our dogs heal and keep them mobile and happy for years to come. 
We just have to be vigilant and know what to do when issues arise. So, let's take a look at muscle strains in dogs & how to help when they occur. 
<h2>What Is a Muscle Strain in Dogs?</h2>
A muscle strain happens when muscle fibers stretch or tear beyond their normal threshold. In dogs, tears usually occur during activities like running, jumping, chasing, or rough play. It's an easy thing to understand because we experience them in the same way. 
We expect dogs to be nimble and resilient, though, so sometimes it's hard for us to know where our dogs' limits are. Younger dogs are typically more resilient, but they're also prone to extreme bursts of activity. Older dogs or those with underlying joint issues may also be more prone to strains.
Muscle strains differ from sprains (which affect ligaments, not muscles) but can present with similar signs of lameness. Knowing the difference is less important than recognizing when your dog needs rest, support, or a vet visit.
So, when your dog shows the signs of a pull or strain, focus more on the severity of their symptoms rather than worrying about which of the two the injury actually is. 
<h2>Common Causes of Muscle Strains 
</h2>
Muscle strains are caused by a variety of things, and many of them are pretty intuitive - slips and falls, overexertion, strain, etc. These things can be difficult to avoid, especially if your dog is strong willed and loves to play. 
That said, we can make decisions that help us avoid strains. For example, limiting slippery floors, especially near couches and beds, so that our dogs don't land awkwardly and slip.
We can also sense when our dogs are about to get excited in an environment that could lead to an injury. If you're outdoors in a wet or rocky area without flat terrain, for example, it's a good idea to get the situation under control before your dog gets hurt. 
Below are some of the most common causes of strains:
<ul>
<li>
Overexertion – Intense play, long hikes, or sudden bursts of running.</li>
<li>
Slips and falls – Especially on hardwood or tile floors.</li>
<li>
Jumping from heights – Off beds, couches, or out of cars.</li>
<li>
Repetitive strain – Activities like chasing balls or frequent running.</li>
<li>
Age-related weakness – Senior dogs often compensate with certain muscles, increasing strain risk.</li>
</ul>
As you can see, these are extremely common situations for dogs. At the same time, they're all situations that we can mitigate as dog owners, so being aware of the risks can really influence your decision making when it comes to playtime and exercise.
<h2>Signs Your Dog May Have a Muscle Strain</h2>
The signs of a muscle strain in your dog should be relatively easy to spot, with the telltale sign being a sudden limp. If your dog is gingerly walking on one of their limbs all of the sudden, there's a good chance that they're dealing with some kind of muscular discomfort. 
Note that another common cause of limping is scrapes, cuts, or foreign objects embedded into paw pads. If you're out on a walk and your dog shows a sudden limp, <a title="This article discusses paw injuries in dogs." href="https://lolahemp.com/blogs/dog-health/dogs-limping-after-exercise">a paw issue</a> is just as likely as a strain.
Here are some of the tell-tale signs of strains:
<ul>
<li>Limping or favoring one leg</li>
<li>Stiffness after resting</li>
<li>Reluctance to jump or climb stairs</li>
<li>Whimpering or yelping when moving</li>
<li>Swelling or heat in a specific area</li>
<li>Licking or chewing at the sore spot</li>
<li>Reduced activity or fatigue</li>
</ul>
If symptoms last longer than a few days, or if your dog refuses to put weight on a leg, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. Follow your gut here in the first hours, and head to the veterinarian if your dog is in visible pain. 
A light limp requires some rest and recovery, but anything that has your dog yelping or whimpering is a cause for concern and should be treated. 
<h2>How Vets Diagnose Muscle Strains</h2>
Your veterinarian will likely begin with a physical exam, checking for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. In some cases, imaging (like X-rays or ultrasounds) may be used to rule out fractures or joint problems.
Muscle strains are often diagnosed by excluding other issues, such as ligament tears, arthritis, or hip dysplasia. That’s why professional guidance is so important.
<h2>At-Home Care for Mild Muscle Strains</h2>
For minor strains, home care can make a big difference. Always follow your vet’s guidance, but general support often includes:
<ul>
<li>
Rest & restriction – Limit running, jumping, and rough play. Short, controlled leash walks are best.</li>
<li>
Cold compresses – Apply a wrapped ice pack for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling in the first 48 hours.</li>
<li>
Warm compresses – After a couple of days, warmth may help relax stiff muscles.</li>
<li>
Comfortable bedding – Provide a soft, supportive surface to rest on.</li>
<li>
Joint & mobility supplements – Natural options like glucosamine, MSM, turmeric, or full-spectrum hemp oil may support recovery and long-term joint health.</li>
</ul>
In the wake of an injury, it can be a great time to refocus on your dog's hip & joint health. Mobility issues can make dogs more vulnerable to injuries, so there's a chance that supporting your dog's hip & joint health early can reduce the risk of injuries in the first place. 
Further, injuries can lead to lasting mobility struggles. So, it's always important to prioritize your dog's mobility health with gentle exercise, monitoring, and the use of a <a href="https://lolahemp.com/collections/mobility" title="This page lists Lolahemp's line of mobility supplements for dogs.">daily hip & joint supplement</a>.
<h2>When to Call the Vet</h2>
Muscle strains usually improve with time, but sometimes professional care is essential. Contact your vet if:
<ul>
<li>Your dog won’t put any weight on a leg</li>
<li>There is significant swelling, heat, or bruising</li>
<li>Your dog is in significant or moderate pain</li>
<li>Lighter pain lasts longer than a couple of days</li>
<li>You notice repeated limping or weakness</li>
<li>Your dog is a senior or has underlying mobility issues</li>
</ul>
Prompt treatment can prevent minor strains from turning into chronic problems, so use your judgement and lean on the side of caution. If visiting the vet isn't an issue for you, it's always a good idea to make the trip. 
The reality of expensive vet visits, however, can be daunting. So, our recommendation is to make the trip immediately if your dog is obviously in pain or the limp worsens, otherwise waiting a day or two to see if light discomfort persists. 
At the end of the day your dog's mobility and quality of life could be at stake if you don't treat their injury. 
<h2>Preventing Muscle Strains in Dogs</h2>
Preventing muscle strains isn't always easy, but you can do things that reduce your risk. Take a look at the following tips:
<ul>
<li>Keep your dog at a healthy weight to reduce strain on muscles and joints.</li>
<li>Provide regular, moderate exercise instead of sudden bursts of activity.</li>
<li>Warm up with gentle walks before high-intensity play.</li>
<li>Use ramps or stairs to protect joints when getting on beds or into vehicles.</li>
<li>Provide traction on slippery floors with rugs or paw grips.</li>
</ul>
Supporting your dog with a supplement that can help their comfortability and flexibility is always a great idea, too. Take a look at <a title="This page lists Lolahemp's hip & joint oil for dogs, made with CBD and turmeric." href="https://lolahemp.com/products/hip-joint-oil-for-pets">Lolahemp's hip & joint oil</a> for dogs as one daily option.
<h2>Supporting Long-Term Mobility</h2>
Muscle strains are often a temporary setback—but mobility challenges can add up over time. Many pet parents find success with natural mobility support, such as omega fatty acids, glucosamine, green-lipped mussel, or hemp oil. These can help keep joints and muscles resilient as dogs age.
Every dog deserves to run, play, and enjoy life without unnecessary pain. By recognizing the signs of a strain early, providing proper care, and supporting your dog’s long-term health, you’ll be setting them up for more good days ahead.
Bottom line: Most muscle strains in dogs heal with rest and care, but don’t ignore persistent signs. Trust your instincts, work with your vet, and focus on keeping your dog strong and comfortable for the long run.

What Is a Muscle Strain in Dogs?

A muscle strain happens when muscle fibers stretch or tear beyond their normal threshold. In dogs, tears usually occur during activities like running, jumping, chasing, or rough play. It's an easy thing to understand because we experience them in the same way.

We expect dogs to be nimble and resilient, though, so sometimes it's hard for us to know where our dogs' limits are. Younger dogs are typically more resilient, but they're also prone to extreme bursts of activity. Older dogs or those with underlying joint issues may also be more prone to strains.

Muscle strains differ from sprains (which affect ligaments, not muscles) but can present with similar signs of lameness. Knowing the difference is less important than recognizing when your dog needs rest, support, or a vet visit.

So, when your dog shows the signs of a pull or strain, focus more on the severity of their symptoms rather than worrying about which of the two the injury actually is.

Common Causes of Muscle Strains

Muscle strains are caused by a variety of things, and many of them are pretty intuitive - slips and falls, overexertion, strain, etc. These things can be difficult to avoid, especially if your dog is strong willed and loves to play.

That said, we can make decisions that help us avoid strains. For example, limiting slippery floors, especially near couches and beds, so that our dogs don't land awkwardly and slip.

We can also sense when our dogs are about to get excited in an environment that could lead to an injury. If you're outdoors in a wet or rocky area without flat terrain, for example, it's a good idea to get the situation under control before your dog gets hurt.

Below are some of the most common causes of strains:

Overexertion – Intense play, long hikes, or sudden bursts of running.
Slips and falls – Especially on hardwood or tile floors.
Jumping from heights – Off beds, couches, or out of cars.
Repetitive strain – Activities like chasing balls or frequent running.
Age-related weakness – Senior dogs often compensate with certain muscles, increasing strain risk.

As you can see, these are extremely common situations for dogs. At the same time, they're all situations that we can mitigate as dog owners, so being aware of the risks can really influence your decision making when it comes to playtime and exercise.

Signs Your Dog May Have a Muscle Strain

The signs of a muscle strain in your dog should be relatively easy to spot, with the telltale sign being a sudden limp. If your dog is gingerly walking on one of their limbs all of the sudden, there's a good chance that they're dealing with some kind of muscular discomfort.

Note that another common cause of limping is scrapes, cuts, or foreign objects embedded into paw pads. If you're out on a walk and your dog shows a sudden limp, a paw issue is just as likely as a strain.

Here are some of the tell-tale signs of strains:

Limping or favoring one leg
Stiffness after resting
Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
Whimpering or yelping when moving
Swelling or heat in a specific area
Licking or chewing at the sore spot
Reduced activity or fatigue

If symptoms last longer than a few days, or if your dog refuses to put weight on a leg, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. Follow your gut here in the first hours, and head to the veterinarian if your dog is in visible pain.

A light limp requires some rest and recovery, but anything that has your dog yelping or whimpering is a cause for concern and should be treated.

How Vets Diagnose Muscle Strains

Your veterinarian will likely begin with a physical exam, checking for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. In some cases, imaging (like X-rays or ultrasounds) may be used to rule out fractures or joint problems.

Muscle strains are often diagnosed by excluding other issues, such as ligament tears, arthritis, or hip dysplasia. That’s why professional guidance is so important.

At-Home Care for Mild Muscle Strains

For minor strains, home care can make a big difference. Always follow your vet’s guidance, but general support often includes:

Rest & restriction – Limit running, jumping, and rough play. Short, controlled leash walks are best.
Cold compresses – Apply a wrapped ice pack for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling in the first 48 hours.
Warm compresses – After a couple of days, warmth may help relax stiff muscles.
Comfortable bedding – Provide a soft, supportive surface to rest on.
Joint & mobility supplements – Natural options like glucosamine, MSM, turmeric, or full-spectrum hemp oil may support recovery and long-term joint health.

In the wake of an injury, it can be a great time to refocus on your dog's hip & joint health. Mobility issues can make dogs more vulnerable to injuries, so there's a chance that supporting your dog's hip & joint health early can reduce the risk of injuries in the first place.

Further, injuries can lead to lasting mobility struggles. So, it's always important to prioritize your dog's mobility health with gentle exercise, monitoring, and the use of a daily hip & joint supplement.

When to Call the Vet

Muscle strains usually improve with time, but sometimes professional care is essential. Contact your vet if:

Your dog won’t put any weight on a leg
There is significant swelling, heat, or bruising
Your dog is in significant or moderate pain
Lighter pain lasts longer than a couple of days
You notice repeated limping or weakness
Your dog is a senior or has underlying mobility issues

Prompt treatment can prevent minor strains from turning into chronic problems, so use your judgement and lean on the side of caution. If visiting the vet isn't an issue for you, it's always a good idea to make the trip.

The reality of expensive vet visits, however, can be daunting. So, our recommendation is to make the trip immediately if your dog is obviously in pain or the limp worsens, otherwise waiting a day or two to see if light discomfort persists.

At the end of the day your dog's mobility and quality of life could be at stake if you don't treat their injury.

Preventing Muscle Strains in Dogs

Preventing muscle strains isn't always easy, but you can do things that reduce your risk. Take a look at the following tips:

Keep your dog at a healthy weight to reduce strain on muscles and joints.
Provide regular, moderate exercise instead of sudden bursts of activity.
Warm up with gentle walks before high-intensity play.
Use ramps or stairs to protect joints when getting on beds or into vehicles.
Provide traction on slippery floors with rugs or paw grips.

Supporting your dog with a supplement that can help their comfortability and flexibility is always a great idea, too. Take a look at Lolahemp's hip & joint oil for dogs as one daily option.

Supporting Long-Term Mobility

Muscle strains are often a temporary setback—but mobility challenges can add up over time. Many pet parents find success with natural mobility support, such as omega fatty acids, glucosamine, green-lipped mussel, or hemp oil. These can help keep joints and muscles resilient as dogs age.

Every dog deserves to run, play, and enjoy life without unnecessary pain. By recognizing the signs of a strain early, providing proper care, and supporting your dog’s long-term health, you’ll be setting them up for more good days ahead.

Bottom line: Most muscle strains in dogs heal with rest and care, but don’t ignore persistent signs. Trust your instincts, work with your vet, and focus on keeping your dog strong and comfortable for the long run.

References: