Adjusting your dog’s routine for darker mornings and colder weather

When the nights get darker and the mornings get colder, our daily routines naturally change – and so do our dogs’. While many pups are highly adaptable, a sudden shift in light, temperature and activity can leave some feeling out of sorts.

So how can you tweak your dog’s day-to-day routine to suit the wintry weather? This guide explores how season changes affect dogs, and how to ease the transition with simple,

Absolutely – dogs thrive on consistency. Regular mealtimes, walks and bedtime habits help them feel safe and settled, so it’s no major surprise that seasonal disruptions, such as changing clocks and darker mornings, can throw them off balance.

They might not understand why their walk is suddenly happening an hour later or why it’s still pitch black at breakfast time, but they’ll definitely notice the difference.

Twice a year, we adjust our clocks. The autumn time change (when clocks go back) means much darker evenings. This shift can affect your dog’s internal clock, especially when it comes to eating, exercising and snoozing. So, if your dog seems restless, unusually hungry or off their usual rhythm, it could be down to this seasonal shift.

If they’re particularly sensitive to light, you could try adjusting their daily schedule gradually in the lead-up to the clock change. For example, bring walks and mealtimes forward or back by 10 to 15 minutes each day until you’re aligned with the new time.

Even if they’re darker, chillier and sleepier, mornings still set the tone for your dog’s day. Here’s what pet owners can focus on:

• Let in the light: Open the curtains as early as possible to help regulate your dog’s circadian rhythm.
•  Go for a walk (if it’s safe): Even a short stroll can burn off energy and keep your dog feeling positive and focused.
•  Keep breakfast consistent: Mealtime routines can act as an anchor, especially during seasonal changes.
  

Remember, just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean your dog wants to skip their walks entirely. Small tweaks such as adding a protective coat can help if they’re sensitive to the cold. Find more tips in our guide to walking your dog in winter.

Some dogs start waking up early or asking for food at odd times when they’re confused by the seasons. Making small shifts to their schedule can help.

Stick to the best feeding routine for dogs by:

• Keeping mealtimes regular – even if you shift them gradually over a few days
• Watching for signs of overfeeding, particularly if exercise levels drop
• Offering a slightly lighter evening meal if your dog is getting less activity during the day
  

Walks don’t disappear just because the sun does – but it’s important to stay visible and safe while out and about. Here’s how to protect both you and your pup:

• Use reflective or LED collars, leads and coats
• Carry a torch or wear a headlamp
• Stick to well-lit routes and avoid isolated paths after dusk
• Choose quiet times of day if your dog gets anxious in the dark

And if the weather really doesn’t allow for outdoor fun, try some indoor alternatives instead.

Noticed your dog seems quieter or more withdrawn than usual? The changing season could be the culprit. Just like us, dogs can feel the effects of less daylight and lower activity levels. Read more about how to tell if your dog is happy and how to stave off seasonal affective disorder in dogs.

Thoughtful tweaks that prioritise your dog’s physical and emotional needs can make a big difference over the winter months. If you’re ever unsure what’s normal, or whether your dog needs more support, a quick chat with a vet can offer peace of mind. If you have dog insurance with Petplan, you can also use our Pet Expert Chat to speak with an expert about your concerns. Log into your My Petplan account and head to the My Support area to access.