Could your dog be SAD? (Image: Getty)
As UK residents battle freezing temperatures and post-festive seasonal and financial woes, it’s not just humans who could be experiencing the winter blues.
Whilst the ‘seasonal slump’ is well-recognised in people, our beloved four-legged friends often struggle as well, showing subtle signs of ‘depression’. As dog owners spot their pets becoming more sluggish during the colder months, a frequent question emerges: Can dogs suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), too?
To help pull the nation’s pooches out of the winter doldrums, Carolanne Cicero, Registered Veterinary Nurse and Bella+Duke’s In-House Veterinary Advisor, has revealed how the brutal winter months impact our furry companions.
Carolanne explains: « Strictly speaking, our canine companions don’t suffer from clinical Seasonal Affective Disorder in the same way humans do. However, if your pooch seems a bit ‘off’, you aren’t imagining it. »
She adds: « Experts widely agree that dogs experience a very real version of the ‘winter blues’, displaying behaviours that mirror the seasonal slump we feel ourselves. »
Read more: Dog owners warned over ‘toxic’ plants you may have at home
Read more: Vet urges pet owners to make 3 simple changes to ‘extend dog’s life’
3 warning signs your dog has the winter blues
Dogs experience a very real version of the ‘winter blues’ (Image: Getty)
Typical indicators your dog feels ‘low’ include lethargy, such as reluctance to exercise or sleeping considerably more than normal. Owners may also spot changes in their dog’s appetite, ranging from a loss of interest in food to appearing constantly hungry. Dogs may even become withdrawn, hiding away from the family or ignoring their favourite toys.
Whilst the behaviours mentioned typically signal low spirits in canines, vet nurse Carolanne has flagged three crucial warning signs that warrant an immediate veterinary consultation.
Signs of Pain
“Any stiffness or slowing down often indicates underlying issues like arthritis, which is aggravated by the cold rather than caused by seasonal sadness,” shares Carolanne.
Anxious Tics
The expert shares: “Excessive paw licking or chewing is a common sign of distress or skin irritation that requires attention.”
The Two-Week Rule
“If any of these symptoms – lethargy, appetite changes or withdrawal – persist for more than two weeks, book an appointment with a vet to rule out any underlying illness.”
5 tips to keep dogs happy
There are warning signs your dog could be ‘feeling off’ (Image: Getty)
Beyond monitoring their mood, owners can proactively boost their dog’s mental health by following these five simple tips from vet nurse Carolanne:
Maximise light exposure
“Since a lack of sunlight is a primary driver of the ‘winter blues’, you can boost your dog’s mood by opening curtains, moving their bed closer to a window, and timing walks to coincide with the brightest part of the day. At the same time, light therapy lamps can be effective; always consult a vet before introducing them,” she shares.
Maintain physical activity
Carolanne adds: “Exercise is a proven antidote to low mood, so it is essential to stick to walking routines even when the weather isn’t ideal; ensure your dog stays comfortable by using a coat or jumper for older or thin-furred breeds. And always prioritise safety by avoiding slippery surfaces and never leaving pets unattended in bitterly cold conditions.”
Keep boredom at bay
“Boredom can look a lot like depression in dogs, so when the weather is too severe for long walks, prevent it by engaging your dog’s mind with puzzle toys, scent games, and by teaching your dog new tricks, these are great ways to provide the mental stimulation needed to ward off a seasonal slump.”
Stick to a routine
The vet nurse’s advice is simple: “Dogs find immense comfort in predictability, and the sudden shift from festive chaos to January quiet can trigger anxiety; maintaining consistent mealtimes, walks, and play sessions will help your dog feel secure.”
Focus on comfort and nutrition
“Help your dog keep warm by creating a ‘cosy corner’ with extra blankets in a draft-free spot. While you should never give your pet Vitamin D supplements, as they can be toxic to dogs, adding Omega-3 fatty acids like fish oil can support their cognitive health. However, you should always consult your vet before altering their diet,” says the expert.
How to keep dogs stimulated when stuck at home during winter
There are ways to keep your dog stimulated even when they’re stuck inside during winter (Image: Getty)
When brutal winter conditions make dog walks too dangerous or considerably shorten the length of their time outdoors, swapping outdoor exercise for brain-boosting activities proves an effective method for burning your pet’s energy whilst satisfying their need for interaction.
The veterinary nurse has outlined simple strategies to keep your four-legged friends engaged throughout winter, even when they’re stuck at home:
Bin the Bowl: Switch to puzzle feeders or stimulating toys that challenge your pooch to earn their dinner.
Sniff and Focus Activities: Tap into their powerful sense of smell through indoor treasure hunts or scent-based challenges to sharpen mental focus.
Active Play & Instruction: Try corridor-based retrieval games or rope-pulling contests to burn off physical steam.
Meet Them Eye-to-Eye: Rather than simply scattering toys about, get down onto the carpet for playtime. This intimate contact proves essential for preventing the loneliness behind seasonal doldrums.
Never Too Late to Learn: Utilise indoor time for teaching fresh skills. Mastering novel instructions demands serious mental effort from your companion.
