Does My Dog Have SAD?
How the Winter months can affect our dogs' mood.
Hello, and a very warm welcome back as you hear from me, here, for the first time in a few months.
Have you seen a recent dip in your dog’s mood? A study by the PDSA shared that a third of pet parents found that their dogs appear down or depressed during the Winter months.
Understanding what is normal behaviour for the dog you live with is key to spotting changes in both their mood state and physical wellbeing. Lethargy, loss - or gain - of appetite, or a lack of usual excitement for the things your dog loves to do, can all be telltale signs of depression.
Not only do the Winter months bring less daylight - something that’s very important for our dogs to help keep their natural circadian rhythms in order - but it can also bring routine changes.
Some dogs thrive on a regular routine. So, if walk, play, or meal times are changing as you savour an extra few minutes in bed on these dark mornings, your dog may find it hard to adjust. By trying to keep some sort of regular routine - you will help them navigate these darker months.
And the bonus is, that regular walks or enrichment activities can not only boost your dog’s mood but yours too! You’ll feel more physically strong, as well as benefitting from the feel-good endorphins that getting out for exercise provides.
So, this Winter - try to keep a positive routine filled with a balance of exercise in daylight hours, playtime, sniffing time for your dog, and of course lots of relaxed time together.
Until next time, enjoy those daylight hours!
Caroline