How the weather and seasons affect dogs
Shorter days, wind, rain, heat and storms can all change how your dog sleeps, behaves and wants to exercise. Here is what to expect through the year, including shedding seasons and how to keep your dog safe in hot weather.
The short answer
Many dogs sleep more and are less keen to go out in short, cold or wet days, and are more active on mild days. Many dogs shed heavily in spring and again in autumn. Hot weather is the biggest risk: walk early or late, carry water, avoid hot pavements and never leave a dog in a car. Contact a vet straight away if your dog is panting heavily, drooling or collapses.
Key considerations
- 01In hot weather, walk early or late and never leave a dog in a car.
- 02Heatstroke can kill. Contact a vet straight away if your dog is panting heavily, drooling or collapses.
- 03Walk during daylight hours in winter to keep your dog active.
- 04Expect heavier shedding in spring and autumn.
The weather affects our mood and routines, and it affects our dogs too. Changes in daylight, temperature and conditions can alter how your dog sleeps, how keen they are to go out and how they behave.
Sleep and daylight
As winter arrives and the days get shorter, many dogs sleep more than they do in summer. Changes in natural light can affect their sleep patterns, and some dogs seem less lively or more subdued in the darker months.
To help, walk your dog during daylight hours where you can, and make sure they still get lots of exercise each day.
Wind, rain and cold
Many dogs are reluctant to walk or play outside when it's windy and wet. Others seem happy to go out in almost any weather.
Dogs often move more slowly on cold days. Many dogs are more active on mild days, but hot weather brings its own risks.
The seasons in the UK
The UK has fairly distinct seasons, with cold, wet winters and lighter, sometimes warmer summers. The changes in daylight and temperature can affect your dog in several ways.
Shedding
Many dogs shed heavily in spring to lose their winter coat, and again in autumn as the thicker coat grows in. This is most noticeable in breeds with thick coats. Regular brushing during these times helps.
Summer and hot weather
In hot weather walk your dog early or late, carry water, avoid hot pavements, and never leave a dog in a car. Heatstroke can kill. Contact a vet straight away if your dog is panting heavily, drooling or collapses.
Storms and changes in the weather
Dogs' senses are different from ours. Some dogs seem to sense changes in air pressure and may become anxious before a storm. If your dog is scared of storms, give them a quiet, safe place to retreat to, and ask your vet for advice if the fear is severe.
Before you decide
- Do you know the signs of heatstroke?
- Have you planned cooler times of day for summer walks?
Questions readers ask
Do dogs sleep more in winter?
Many do. Shorter days and less natural light can affect their sleep patterns. Walking during daylight hours and keeping up their daily exercise helps.
When do dogs shed the most?
Many dogs shed heavily in spring to lose their winter coat, and again in autumn as the thicker coat grows in.
How can I keep my dog safe in hot weather?
Walk your dog early or late, carry water, avoid hot pavements, and never leave a dog in a car. Contact a vet straight away if your dog is panting heavily, drooling or collapses.
Sources and further reading
- Position statement: heat-related illness in dogs, UK Brachycephalic Working Group (). Accessed
- Tips for looking after your dog in the winter cold, Dogs Trust. Accessed
About this article
- Written by Mypetzilla Editorial Team
- Published
- Updated
This article is general pet advice, not veterinary or legal advice. If your pet is unwell, speak to a vet.
On Mypetzilla
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