2020.09.07
Have you ever noticed a sudden change in your dog's behavior? One minute he's laying next to him and the next he's hunched over hiding in his bathroom. At first, there may seem to be no obvious reason for your puppy's mood swings. Then suddenly a violent thunderstorm starts over your house. How did your pup know a storm was headed your way? Veterinarians and other dog experts believe that canines can sense changes in barometric pressure better than humans. Dogs also have better hearing. Your pup may have heard the low-pitched rumble of thunder when the storm was still many miles away. Does weather affect dog behavior in other ways? Yes. Below are just four examples of how Mother Nature can affect your pup's mood.
When it's very hot...
As the temperature rises, you may notice a decrease in your dog's activity level and appetite. One reason is that dogs can overheat quickly if they are too active on a hot day. To cool down, dogs will bask, wade in water, or lie on a cool surface to dissipate their body heat. Unfortunately, when a dog overheats, its cooling system is difficult to maintain and can result in heat stroke.
Dogs such as French bulldogs or spaniels have a particularly hard time cooling their bodies. Be sure to take extra precautions to keep dogs with short muzzles from overheating. For example, if you want to cool down your puppy, you can use a light dog towel, cool it under cold water and wrap it around it.
When you're walking dogs in hot weather, it's also important to keep your pup's paws in mind. Hot sidewalks, sand, and streets are another reason why your furry best friend doesn't want to be active when the temperature rises.
When you see snow outside the window...
Most dogs seem to enjoy snow. They will frolic, play and even go sledding with their owners. If you have a dog with a heavy, thick coat, you'll probably find that you see a lot of bliss in his eyes when you take him out for a walk in the snow. On the other hand, other short-haired puppies are hell, and you may be able to help these pups adjust by wrapping them in warm fur and special boots to protect their paws. Also, make sure you towel him off well when you get home to remove all the snow from his fur.
Strong thunderstorm...
According to research, about 15-30 percent of dogs are afraid of thunderstorms. They will become very anxious - feeling a storm coming, panting, pacing uncontrollably or crying out of fear. Some particularly fearful dogs will even begin to associate hot, muggy nights with thunderstorms or Fourth of July fireworks. Unfortunately, such dogs may resist going outside to do their activities if they sense a storm coming or hear thunder. Some owners have found that anxiety vests or t-shirts can help their pups overcome their fear of thunderstorms. The Anxiety Shirt is designed to provide a constant, gentle hug to the dog and is believed to calm the pet's nervous system. Other owners have taken medication or even tried CBD oils to ease their pet's storm anxiety. It is always best to consult a veterinarian, they will always advise you on what to do with your four-legged friend.
Take care of your pets!