Does Weather Affect My Dog’s Behavior?
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Does Weather Affect My Dog’s Behavior?
Fall is in full swing, which may mean your pup will go through some changes. They might be growing in their winter coat or eating more often to gain some weight before the cold months really start to kick in. You might also notice some behavioral changes. Depending on how your pet feels about the cold, they may be more or less playful.
As attentive dog owners, we are likely to wonder what changes our pets experience in the colder months. Here are a few of the most common changes your dog may experience in the fall, and what you can do to help them feel more comfortable:
Fewer thunderstorms mean a happier pet.
Many dogs, especially smaller breeds, and afraid of thunderstorms. Unfortunately for them, the rainy season in Florida lasts well into September and October but should begin to slow down the closer we get to winter. If your dog is scared of thunder and lightning, it’ll be happy to get a break from the stormy season very soon. If your best friend has a hard time during the stormy season, check out these tips on how to calm your dog!
Some dogs will want to spend more time outside.
Brachycephalic breeds, long-coated, and large dog breeds will also enjoy a break from the summer heat. Brachycephalic breeds can have trouble breathing in the humid weather, while dogs with thick coats can overheat in the summertime if they play for too long. If you have a dog that prefers the indoors in the summer, now is the time to take them out and get some much-needed exercise. Long walks, hiking, or camping trips are ideal for brachycephalic and long-coated dogs in the Florida fall and winter.
Other dogs will want to snuggle to stay warm.
Short-haired dogs and toy breeds, on the other hand, may want to spend less time outside in the dead of winter. They’ll likely want to snuggle with you more often to keep warm. If your dog is particularly sensitive to the cold, you may want to get them a jacket to keep warm during your walks.
Cold weather can cause joint and chronic pain flare-ups.
Dogs with s hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, or arthritis may experience flare-ups of pain in the colder months, so it's important to schedule a vet visit to find solutions that work for them. CBD gummies, heating pads, and other at-home remedies can help your dog feel more comfortable in the winter.
Relocation can be tricky.
Relocating to a place with a different climate can also cause changes in your dog’s mood, activity level, and behavior. If this is your first time in Florida, your dog may respond positively to the fall and winter months as opposed to the grueling summer heat. Or, if you are planning to move to a colder climate this year, your dog may need time to adjust if they’re used to year-round warmth.
If you are attentive to your dog’s needs, there is no reason why they can’t enjoy this change of seasons with you. For more information on how to prepare your dog for fall, visit our blog! What are some ways your dog’s behavior changes with the seasons?
