You might not expect the start of daylight savings time to affect your dog. After all, they can’t read a clock, right? If only it were that simple.
Like many animals (including humans), dogs have circadian rhythms—also known as internal clocks. Therefore, the lifestyle and schedule adjustments that often come with humans springing forward may influence dogs, even though they can’t tell time. Still, by understanding how daylight savings time can impact dogs, you can make the transition easier for both you and your furry friend.
Common Reactions to the Time Change
Our four-legged friends rely on us for food, shelter, hygiene and more. So when we change our schedules, our dogs will likely have to make a few adjustments, too. You might notice a few behavioral changes in your pup at this time.
Disrupted Sleep Patterns
Your dog might begin to wake up or go to bed earlier or later than usual, leading to restlessness or fatigue. Think about it this way. When your clock springs forward to 7:00 AM, your dog’s internal clock is still set to 6:00 AM, and they might not be ready to wake up and go outside as usual. As your dog adjusts to the time change, they might be more tired at odd times and take more naps than usual. However, they should begin to act like their normal self within a few days.
Appetite Changes
If your dog is on a regular feeding schedule, their habits may change as they get used to eating at a different time. Some dogs will refuse to eat at their normal time, given that you’re technically feeding them an hour before their internal clock tells them it’s time to eat. As their schedules adjust, you might also notice your dog begging, pacing or whining for food at unusual hours.
Potty Schedule Adjustments
Many dogs “regulate” themselves as they get used to going outside to use the bathroom at certain times of day. Therefore, pushing your clock forward means the dog’s body is running an hour behind the clock. So, a 7:00 AM bathroom break might prove fruitless, given that your dog’s body says it’s 6:00 AM. It’s not uncommon for a couple of unfortunate accidents to happen as your dog adjusts to their new schedule.
Behavioral Shifts
Because canines are often sensitive to shifts in human behavior, the adjustments that come with springing forward might cause them stress. Your dog simply might not understand why you’re waking them up, feeding them, taking them out or leaving them alone when it’s “not time” yet. This might lead to some increased anxiety or clinginess, as well as fluctuating energy levels.
Helping Your Dog Adjust
Most dogs will begin to adjust to their new spring schedules over time, and there are many things you can do to help them through the process.
1. Make Gradual Changes
If you can, start adjusting your dog’s schedule a few days before daylight savings time begins. For example, if your dog is used to eating at 6:00 PM, start feeding them at 5:45 for a couple of days. Then, move the time up to 5:30, 5:15 and so on until you are feeding them an hour earlier. That way, when your clock moves forward, your dog’s internal clock will still tell your dog that it’s the perfect time to eat.
2. Maintain Key Activities
Consistency is key when helping your dog feel secure despite changing habits. Stick to your regular routines for exercise, playtime and general comings and goings. You can even consider adding a little extra playtime into your day to give your dog time to burn off any excess energy. During this time, don’t forget to consistently apply obedience training and behavior skills. Your dog will look to these commands for guidance and reassurance that everything is normal.
3. Offer Comfort
Try to keep your dog’s living, sleeping and comfort arrangements as normal as possible. The more familiar things your dog sees, the more they will be able to recognize what they should be doing at a certain time. If your dog seems anxious, stressed or out of sorts, give them plenty of reassurance and cuddles to let them know everything is okay.
4. Be Patient
Most dogs can adjust to their new schedule in a relatively short time, sometimes within a week. Be patient with your dog and avoid scolding or getting frustrated if they seem off-schedule. Also praise and reward them as they follow through with the new routine. This can reinforce positive behavior and help your pup feel more comfortable with the ongoing changes.
Stay Focused On Your Dog When You Spring Forward
Daylight savings time brings changes, but maintaining your dog’s sense of security can ease the transition. Shifts in appetite, sleep, and behavior are common but usually temporary. With a little extra care, your dog can quickly adapt and thrive in the new routine. Sit Means Sit Charleston is here to provide expert guidance and quality dog training resources as you and your dog navigate all of spring’s changes. If you think it’s time to brush up on your dog’s training skills, get in touch with us for a free consultation!
Salvatore was great! He was on time, patient and encouraging. My dog took to him right away. Brazzie listens to me now and does not show anxiety towards other animals.
— Linda L.
I brought my first dog here to help train with her aggression and within the first week I noticed such a difference with her attention and behavior! The trainers here are diligent and really show you how facilitate the training at home! Our puppy kai is always getting compliments of how well behaved he is around other people and I couldn’t of gotten him to this point without their guidance and training!
— Alexis J.
My dog, Roux, completed her day train program today and our experience has been great! From her puppy classes through 5 weeks of day train she has learned a lot and demonstrated her intelligence and trainability! The trainers are very knowledgeable and work around your dogs strengths and weaknesses and maximize on their full potential not just the basics.
