How Weather can Impact Your Dog’s Mood and Behavior?

Did you know the weather can have a direct impact on your dog’s mood, health, and behavior? From thunderstorms and hot summer days to dark winter months, various weather conditions can affect dogs in surprising ways. If you’ve noticed changes in your dog’s behavior or health during certain seasons or storms, here’s a breakdown of how and why weather affects dogs—and how you can help them feel more comfortable through it all.

Thunderstorm Anxiety in Dogs

Signs of Thunderstorm Phobia Many dogs experience a heightened fear response during thunderstorms. They may start to shake, whimper, bark, hide, or even try to squeeze into small spaces like under tables or in bathtubs where they feel safer. This type of anxiety is common and is often triggered by loud sounds, changes in air pressure, and even the static electricity that builds up before a storm.

Why Dogs Fear Thunderstorms?

Dogs perceive thunder as a threat because they cannot identify the source of the noise. Studies show that dogs with thunderstorm anxiety experience a significant increase in cortisol, a stress hormone, during storms. In fact, thunder-phobic dogs can have cortisol levels 200 percent higher than those of unaffected dogs during a storm.

How to Help Calm Your Dog During a Thunderstorm

• Provide a Safe Space: If your dog prefers to retreat to a quiet area, such as a crate or small room, allow them to do so.
• Use Background Noise: Playing calming music or keeping the TV on can help mask the sound of thunder.
• Avoid Excessive Comforting: Stay calm and avoid over-comforting your dog, as it may unintentionally reinforce their fear.
• Seek Veterinary Advice if Necessary: In severe cases, your veterinarian may recommend a mild sedative to help calm your dog. Only use medications specifically prescribed for your dog’s safety.

Sensitivity to Changes in Barometric Pressure and Air Quality

Changes in barometric pressure before storms or other weather events can significantly affect a dog’s behavior. Dogs have an acute sense of smell and can detect changes in air quality and pressure that humans can’t, often leading them to sniff the air or behave restlessly. This sensitivity to atmospheric changes may explain why some dogs appear more agitated or curious as a storm approaches.

Hot Weather and Reduced Activity Levels in Dogs

Behavioral Changes in Summer Heat Just like humans, many dogs experience lower energy levels in hot weather. They may lose their appetite, avoid exercise, or seek out cool places to rest. You might notice your dog lying on tiled floors, near fans, or even under shade to escape the heat.

How to Keep Your Dog Comfortable in Hot Weather

Sometimes you can do some dog-friendly outdoor activities or fun things with your dog at home. To keep your dog comfortable in hot weather you can do:

• Provide Plenty of Water: Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water, especially in warm weather.
• Limit Outdoor Activity: Take your dog for walks during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening.
• Create a Cool Resting Spot: Set up a shaded or well-ventilated area where your dog can relax and stay cool.

Winter Blues and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in Dogs

Just as humans can experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), some dogs may show signs of the “winter blues” during the colder, darker months. Signs of SAD in dogs include:

• Increased sleep
• Decreased activity levels
• Less interest in play or social interactions
• General lethargy and low energy

What Causes SAD in Dogs?

During winter, there is less natural sunlight, which can impact melatonin production. Melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep cycles, increases in darkness, leading to feelings of fatigue and relaxation. The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) found that 40% of pet owners observed changes in their dog’s mood and behavior during winter months.

Tips for Managing the Winter Blues in Dogs

• Increase Indoor Playtime: Use toys, games, or interactive activities to keep your dog engaged and active.
• Use Artificial Sunlight: Light therapy lamps, often used for humans with SAD, can also be helpful for dogs. Place the lamp in a room where your dog spends time, especially during shorter days.
• Get Outside When Possible: On clear days, take your dog for a walk to get some natural sunlight, which can improve mood and energy levels.

Why Dogs Are Highly Sensitive to Weather Changes

Dogs have super powers of perception, they can pick up on tiny changes in the environment that we miss. Barometric pressure changes, temperature fluctuations and even the smell of rain can trigger a response in dogs. They are super sensitive to changes in weather.

Weather affects your dog’s mood and behaviour. Gloomy and stormy days can cause anxiety or restlessness because of the static electricity and low frequency noises that come with it. Sunny days can boost energy and make your dog more playful, just like humans during different seasons.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how weather affects your dog can help you better support their emotional and physical well-being. Whether it’s providing a safe space during thunderstorms, keeping them cool in the heat, or finding ways to brighten their mood during winter, small changes can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort and happiness. By staying in tune with their needs, you can help your dog enjoy every season safely and comfortably.

FAQs

Can change of weather make dogs sick?

Yes, weather changes can make some dogs more susceptible to illnesses. Seasonal allergies, for instance, can flare up in spring and fall, while colder temperatures can aggravate arthritis in older dogs. Extreme weather, like heatwaves, can also lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and related health issues.

How do dogs act when bad weather is coming?

Dogs often show signs of restlessness, pacing, sniffing the air, and even hiding when they sense bad weather approaching. These behaviors stem from their ability to detect changes in barometric pressure, scent, and static electricity, which signal a shift in the weather.

What weather is unsafe for dogs?

Both extreme heat and cold are unsafe for dogs. High temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke, while extreme cold can cause hypothermia and frostbite. It’s essential to provide shelter, water, and avoid prolonged exposure to harsh conditions.

Can weather cause anxiety in dogs?

Yes, weather can indeed cause anxiety in dogs, especially during thunderstorms, high winds, and even during changes in barometric pressure. Thunderstorm phobia is common in dogs, and symptoms can include shaking, hiding, barking, and other signs of distress.