Amanda Teixeira
How do dogs actually react to the time change and how can you get your dog used to the new time as gently as possible? Our tips will ensure a relaxed transition for you and your dog!
The clock is turned back or forward every six months. The one hour plus or minus can confuse not only you but your dog as well. After all, he has gotten used to the same rhythm over the past six months: not only his head, but also his body with all its needs, such as eating or going to the toilet, may have adapted to a certain time. His routine gets messed up – this can definitely make your dog stressful and nervous. Our tips will help you to get your dog used to the new time without stress!
Understanding during the time change
Just as not every human reacts to the time change in the same way, not every dog copes with it equally well. While some dogs are perfectly fine with being fed an hour early or late, others find it a challenge. You know your dog best, so if your dog is more sensitive, don’t judge them. Be understanding and stay calm.
Attention: If you notice that the time change is making things particularly difficult for your dog, it never hurts to ask your trusted veterinarian for advice.
Step by step into the new era
If you have fixed times for walking, feeding, playing with your dog, etc., it is now necessary to gradually get used to the new time. Gradually move your shared rituals forward or backward – about every 15 minutes. You can start a few days before the time change, or catch up on the gradual adjustment after the change.
In this way, your dog will gradually get used to the new daily structure in small steps, without having to endure an abrupt change of a whole hour. By the way: This method also helps many two-legged friends!
Role model for the dog in the time change
You are the most important orientation for your dog: your behavior and well-being is transferred to your dog. That’s why it’s important – to prevent unnecessary nervousness in your dog – to remain calm and relaxed yourself, as always. If your four-legged friend notices how relaxed you are in this situation, he will see no reason to get nervous himself and stay relaxed.
It is completely normal for the dog to be a little more restless after the time change. Don’t let this discourage you and set a good example: In order to get used to the new rhythm with your dog, you too can go to bed earlier or later, step by step.
Fresh air during the time change
A lot of exercises is of course always particularly important for every dog. But if your dog is to get used to the new times, fresh air and persistent romping are essential. If a dog has been outside a lot and was able to work out, it is also more exuberant and relaxed: This way it can cope better with the time change.
Make the time change more relaxed with massages
Is your dog nervous about the time change? As the owner, you probably know a few methods yourself to calm down your four-legged friend. Massages can also help: let your dog sit down and start stroking and massaging him in a relaxed manner.
Be relaxed as well – this will be transferred to the animal. If you went for a long walk beforehand, your dog will be even happier about a nice pampering program afterward.
Distraction from the time change with chewing items
There are many ways to keep your dog busy at home. This is particularly important during the time change: the dog is distracted by demanding games. Chew toys are particularly helpful for this – chewing is a genetically anchored basic need of your dog and has a calming effect on him.
Give your dog something to chew, especially now: Since he pays attention to toys, the stress caused by the time change quickly becomes secondary. Your dog can get used to the new time in a relaxed and stress-free manner and has successfully changed its rhythm for the next six months.