For dogs and humans, winter brings the fun of snowball fights and sports like skijoring, but it also means fewer hours of daylight. And in people, that can lead to the winter blues or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is a type of depression with a seasonal pattern. Have you noticed your dog’s behavior change during the winter months?
As dogs share similar moods and brain chemistry with humans, it’s reasonable to think they might suffer from seasonal affective disorder, too. Read on to learn if the winter is getting your dog down and what you can do to prevent it.
Have you ever noticed your dog seeming a bit down during the winter months? As the days get shorter and colder, many of us humans experience seasonal blues—but what about our four-legged companions? If you’ve wondered whether your pup might be feeling the winter doldrums too, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into what science tells us about seasonal depression in dogs and what we can do to keep our furry friends happy year-round
Do Dogs Actually Get Seasonal Depression?
The short answer? While dogs can certainly experience changes in mood and behavior during winter months, there’s currently no scientific evidence that dogs suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in the same way humans do.
According to Dr Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, “At this time, there is no scientific evidence that dogs get seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as described in humans.” Similarly, veterinary experts at PetMD confirm that “currently, there’s no evidence indicating that dogs get seasonal affective disorder or seasonal depression.”
That said, there are some interesting biological similarities that make the question worth exploring:
- Dogs have pineal glands in their brains just like humans do
- These glands produce melatonin, which affects sleep patterns
- A study of sled dogs showed higher melatonin levels in winter than summer
- Dogs can be sensitive to their owners’ moods, potentially mirroring our winter blues
What Might Look Like Seasonal Depression in Dogs
Even though dogs don’t technically get diagnosed with SAD. many pet parents notice behavior changes during winter months that look suspiciously like symptoms of the winter blues
- Sleeping more than usual
- Decreased activity levels
- Less enthusiasm for walks or playtime
- Acting bored or uninterested in normal activities
A survey in the United Kingdom by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals found that many owners felt their pets seemed more depressed during the darker winter months. However, Dr. Klein points out this was “subjective and relied on the owner’s perceptions of their pets. So, it was anecdotal rather than scientific.”
What’s Really Going On With Your Dog in Winter
If it’s not technically seasonal depression, what explains these winter behavior changes? There are several explanations that make a lot of sense:
1. Environmental Factors
The most likely explanation is simply a response to environmental changes:
- Cold temperatures make outdoor activities less comfortable
- Limited daylight hours mean fewer opportunities for outdoor play
- Bad weather conditions (snow, ice, rain) restrict normal activities
- Indoor confinement leads to less exercise and mental stimulation
As PetMD puts it, “Winter blues in dogs is probably better thought of as boredom or cabin fever, rather than depression.”
2. Mirroring Our Moods
Dogs are incredibly sensitive to human emotions. A recent study showed that dogs can recognize their owners’ moods and distinguish between positive and negative emotions.
If you’re experiencing seasonal blues yourself, your dog might pick up on your:
- Lower energy levels
- Reduced enthusiasm for outdoor activities
- Changes in daily routines
- Subtle shifts in body language or tone of voice
3. Physiological Changes
While not proven to cause depression, dogs do experience some physiological changes in winter:
- Higher melatonin levels (as shown in the sled dog study)
- Possible disruption to natural body rhythms
- Potential Vitamin D deficiency from less sun exposure
When to Worry: Depression vs. Illness
It’s important to distinguish between possible winter blues and actual health problems. If your dog shows these symptoms, it’s time to call the vet:
- Loss of appetite or not eating
- Significant energy decrease beyond just being less playful
- Signs of pain or discomfort
- Any unusual behavior change without an obvious trigger
As PetMD advises, “Unless you have a well-known trigger such as a major change in schedule or death of a companion animal, it’s better to assume that your pet is sick rather than depressed.”
8 Ways to Beat the Winter Blues in Dogs
The good news is that there are tons of ways to keep your dog happy and engaged during the winter months! Here are some effective strategies:
1. Maintain Regular Exercise
Even when it’s cold, most dogs still need regular physical activity:
- Bundle up for shorter but more frequent walks
- Find sheltered areas for outdoor play
- Consider doggy boots if salt and ice are issues
- Schedule walks during the warmest part of the day
2. Create Indoor Enrichment
When outdoor options are limited, get creative indoors:
- Set up indoor obstacle courses
- Play hide-and-seek with treats or toys
- Use food puzzles and interactive toys
- Practice indoor fetch in hallways or open spaces
3. Mental Stimulation
A tired mind is just as important as a tired body:
- Work on training new tricks
- Practice scent work games
- Rotate toys to keep things interesting
- Try puzzle toys that dispense treats
4. Social Interaction
Dogs are social creatures who need companionship:
- Schedule doggy playdates
- Consider occasional daycare visits
- Spend extra quality time together
- Invite dog-loving friends over
5. Maximize Sunlight Exposure
Natural light is beneficial for both you and your pup:
- Open curtains and blinds during daylight hours
- Position your dog’s bed near (but not directly in) sunny windows
- Take advantage of sunny days for outdoor activities
- Walk during daylight hours when possible
6. Maintain Routines
Consistency helps dogs feel secure:
- Keep feeding times consistent
- Stick to regular walk schedules when possible
- Maintain sleep routines
- Continue training sessions year-round
7. Consider Doggy Daycare
If cabin fever is setting in, a change of scenery can help:
- Even 1-2 days a week provides social stimulation
- Offers exercise opportunities regardless of weather
- Provides mental enrichment through new experiences
- Gives your dog something to look forward to
8. Special Winter Activities
Embrace the season with winter-specific fun:
- Try skijoring if you’re adventurous
- Build snow mazes for dogs who enjoy snow
- Set up indoor agility courses
- Have indoor “picnics” with special treats
Our Experience at Pawsome Pups
At our doggy daycare, we always notice a uptick in attendance during the winter months. Many of our regular clients increase from 2 days to 3-4 days weekly during January and February.
We’ve found that the dogs who maintain regular exercise and socialization throughout winter tend to show fewer behavior changes than those who become more isolated. This doesn’t prove seasonal depression exists, but it definitely suggests that maintaining activity levels makes a huge difference!
Last winter, we had a border collie named Max who would get super antsy and destructive at home during winter. His mom started bringing him in three times weekly instead of once, and his behavior improved dramatically. Was it depression? Probably not—just good old-fashioned boredom and excess energy!
The Bottom Line on Canine Seasonal Blues
While dogs probably don’t experience seasonal depression in the clinical sense that humans do, they can absolutely experience changes in mood and behavior during winter months. The good news is that these changes are usually easily addressed with a few simple adjustments to their routine.
Remember:
- Most winter behavior changes in dogs are responses to environment, not true depression
- Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction are key
- If behavior changes are significant, consult your veterinarian
- Your mood affects your dog’s mood, so take care of your own winter wellness too
As Dr. Klein wisely notes, “It is better to enrich our dogs’ lives through good husbandry, proper, well-balanced nutrition, adequate exercise, and mental stimulation: not just during the winter months but all year long.”
Have you noticed winter mood changes in your dog? What strategies have worked best for keeping your furry friend happy during the colder months? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments!
FAQs About Dogs and Seasonal Depression
Can dogs take supplements for winter blues?
Always consult your vet before giving supplements. While humans might benefit from vitamin D or omega-3 supplements, dogs being fed a well-balanced diet already receive the proper minerals and vitamins. Dr. Klein warns that “giving excessive vitamin D can be toxic to dogs, potentially causing fatal kidney damage.”
Do certain dog breeds handle winter better than others?
Absolutely! Northern breeds like Huskies and Malamutes often thrive in winter, while short-haired breeds may struggle more with the cold. Adjust your winter strategies based on your dog’s breed, coat type, size, and age.
Could my dog’s winter behavior change be something more serious?
Yes. If your dog shows significant changes in appetite, energy, or behavior, consult your veterinarian. What looks like winter blues could actually be an underlying health issue that needs attention.
How can I tell if my dog is actually depressed or just bored?
True depression in dogs is usually triggered by a specific event like losing a companion or moving homes. These dogs may still eat and drink but need more coaxing to engage in activities. Bored dogs typically perk up quickly once engaged in an interesting activity.
Should I change my dog’s diet during winter months?
Most dogs don’t need dietary changes unless their activity level changes dramatically. If your dog is getting significantly less exercise, you might need to slightly reduce portions to prevent weight gain. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes.
Do Dogs Experience Seasonal Affective Disorder?
In humans, it’s thought that SAD results from the decreased amount of sunlight in the fall and winter. This can disrupt a person’s internal clock, lower our levels of serotonin (a brain chemical that regulates mood), and increase melatonin (a brain chemical released by the pineal gland that affects sleep). A study of sled dogs showed that the dogs’ melatonin levels were higher in the winter than in the summer, so perhaps dogs are susceptible to SAD, too.
However, there has yet to be a single study looking specifically at seasonal affective disorder in dogs. Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, explains, “At this time, there is no scientific evidence that dogs get seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as described in humans, though dogs also have pineal glands in their brain. The pineal gland produces melatonin, a serotonin-derived hormone that modulates sleep patterns. In humans, some people produce higher amounts of melatonin than usual in winter months, so it may be conceivable that dogs have some changes in mood. But there is no way to objectively measure or diagnose this condition in dogs.”
Dr. Klein also expects that if dogs do suffer from SAD, it would be more common in northern climates with shorter days. “In humans, SAD is described more for people living in northern parts of the world rather than sunnier, warmer climates,” he says. “One would therefore think that dogs living in the far northern climates, such as the sled working dogs would be the most affected, but no known reports or study confirms this. Perhaps because they are physically active and mentally involved.”
What Could Cause a Dog to Get the Winter Blues?
Although there has been a lack of extensive research in this area, a survey carried out in the United Kingdom by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals found that many owners felt their pets become more depressed during the darker winter months. The dogs seemed to sleep more and were less active. Dr. Klein points out, “Like all surveys, it was subjective and relied on the owner’s perceptions of their pets. So, it was anecdotal rather than scientific.”
Of course, there are many explanations for the survey results. People could be projecting their own winter blues onto their pets. A recent study showed that dogs can recognize their owner’s moods and distinguish between positive and negative emotions. So, if their owner is feeling down or experiencing SAD, it’s not a stretch to imagine that could impact the dog’s own emotional state. Or perhaps owners provide their pets with less mental stimulation and physical exercise in the winter.
It’s hard to know if your dog is responding to your mood, reacting to your actions, or suffering from their own emotional problems. There could even be an underlying issue with their physical health. Therefore, Dr. Klein suggests you don’t diagnose your dog with SAD on your own. “There is no scientific evidence that dogs suffer from seasonal affective disorder. If a dog seems lethargic or off their feed, it is best to have them checked by a veterinarian to make sure there is not an underlying medical issue.”