Winter is around the corner, and with it comes shorter days, reduced sunlight, and colder weather. When that happens, it’s not just people who feel the impact of the changing weather. The “winter blues” affects the entire family, including your furry family members.
However, just like with people, there are ways to help your dog through the seasonal changes. Here’s what causes your pup’s winter blues, and how you can help fix it:
Why Does My Dog Have the Winter Blues?
Dogs can’t tell seasons and time in the same way that people do. They rely on their internal clock and the sunlight to guide them through their daily routines.
Shorter days and colder weather often means less outdoor time. It also limits the amount of sunlight everyone receives. This can throw off your dog’s internal clock. The lack of exposure to sunlight can also lower your dog’s serotonin levels.
A chemical that gives feelings of well-being, serotonin is maintained by sunlight. A lack of sunlight, and serotonin, may make your dog:
- Tired
- Lethargic
- Anxious
- Stressed
- Irritable
- Uninterested in regular activities
Other signs include sleeping more than usual and gaining weight from lack of activity. If your dog is showing any of these signs during the winter, Fido may be a victim of the “Winter Blues!” Keep a close eye on your pup during seasonal changes, and if you notice he is acting differently, it may be time for some other changes as well.
How Can I Fix My Dog’s Winter Blues?
When people are hit with a severe case of the winter blues, they can usually tell what’s causing it. They can also find remedies to help give them some winter cheer. Curling up by a crackling fire with a warm blanket, good book, and hot cup of cocoa can make any wintery day seem cozy instead of depressing.
Dogs don’t know that the weather is causing them to feel sad and unwell. They also may not be cheered by the same winter activities that you find enjoyable. There are ways to help keep your dog cheerful and happy during the cold, stormy days, however.
Routines
Dogs thrive with routines. Even if the day gets dark early, it helps to maintain the same routine that you have during the summer. If you go out for a walk in the evening, continue to take those walks even if it’s dark.
Fido may be confused at the lack of daylight at first, but he’ll get used to it. Keep a regular feeding, walking, and playing schedule during the winter, and your dog will feel less stressed about the changing weather.
Comfy Spots
Just like you enjoy a warm blanket near the fire, Fido may also appreciate a cozy corner. A warm bed placed in a warm, quiet, and safe area of the house may help him feel more secure during gloomy days.
Indoor Play
Outdoor play may have to be limited during the colder parts of winter or during heavy storms, but indoor play can be just as fun. Creative and interactive games can help your pup get rid of some energy. Longer training sessions or new indoor toys can also help. You can even build an indoor obstacle course that challenges your dog. Fido may be so busy he’ll forget all about the missed outdoor time!
Social Hour
Puppy play dates, doggy daycare, and indoor dog parks are all ways to help your dog stay social during the winter. Regular social activities during the week can give your dog something to look forward to and enjoy, despite the lack of regular outdoor play.
Don’t forget to take advantage of any warmer days. Let your dog play outdoors as much as the weather permits during the winter. That way, he’ll still get some sunlight, and it may chase away some of the winter blues.
When Is It Not The Winter Blues?
If nothing you do drags your dog out of his slump, it may be time to consult a medical professional. Something else may be behind your dog’s depression if:
- Bad days outnumber the good days
- Your pup shows no interest in food, water, or going outside
- Your dog can no longer do what he enjoys
- He seems to be in pain or discomfort
There are several medical issues that can copy the symptoms of your dog’s seasonal depression. These include:
- Hypothyroidism
- Diabetes
- Liver or kidney disease
- Arthritis, joint disease, & heart disease
- Anemia and cancer
All of these illnesses can cause the same type of lethargy that seasonal depression gives. If you can’t seem to perk Fido up no matter what, it’s time for a trip to the vet.
Final Thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to be gloomy for either you or your dog. It can be a special time of bonding as you find new indoor activities to share in. Use it as an opportunity to get more attuned to your dog’s needs and find new routines to enjoy together.
Also, don’t underestimate the healing power of a nice, cozy cuddle time in a warm blanket. While you’re enjoying a snuggle, you and your pup just may find a great new TV show to watch together during those cold winter nights!
