Do dogs eat less in summer?

Do dogs lose appetite in summer? Here’s what you need to know about your dog’s eating habits over the summer.

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As the weather starts to warm up, you and your dog might spend more time outside. Whether you enjoy long walks, beach swims or evening agility sessions, there’s lots to love about this time of year. But you might notice your dog is eating less than normal.

Do dogs eat less in summer?

Most dogs eat less over the summer, with research showing dogs typically eat more during cold weather.

Why do dogs lose their appetite in summer?

In hot weather, dogs don’t need to use as much energy to stay warm. Your dog will probably spend more time lying in the shade and less time exercising, meaning they’re using fewer calories. As a result, they don’t need to eat as much, and their appetite may decrease.

Should I feed my dog less in summer?

If your dog leaves food in their bowl, try reducing the quantity you’re offering them by around 10-15% each meal. It’s best to stick to their normal kibble or wet food, rather than switching diets to get them to eat more. If you’re concerned about your dog losing weight, speak to your vet before adjusting their food.

As the weather cools down, remember to increase your dog’s rations. Dogs typically eat more over winter, as they use more energy to stay warm. 

Will eating less mean my dog loses weight?

Most of the time, feeding your dog less over the summer shouldn't mean they lose weight. They usually burn fewer calories in warm weather, so their weight should remain relatively stable. Even so, it’s still a good idea to keep an eye on your dog’s weight, using body condition scoring (BCS), weighing them or taking them to the vet for a checkup.

Here’s a quick reminder of how to use BCS to assess your dog’s weight.

• Ribs: As you run your hands down your dog’s sides, apply gentle pressure. You should be able to feel their ribs. If their ribs are pronounced and you can feel them without pressure, your dog may be underweight.
• Waist: Look at your dog from above – they should have a narrow waist just behind their ribs, but this shouldn’t be too exaggerated. Their vertebrae shouldn’t be visible.
• Abdomen: When looking at your dog from the side, their belly should slope upward from their ribs. If your dog is underweight, the abdominal tuck will be very obvious.
• Spine and pelvis: Run your hands over your dog’s spine and pelvis – their bones should be covered in a thin layer of muscle and fat. In underweight dogs, their spine and pelvis will be easy to feel and may also be visible.

If your dog’s weight is stable – and they’re still enthusiastic about eating – a slightly decreased appetite isn’t a cause for concern. But if your dog is eating less and you also notice any of the following signs, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet.

• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Excessive weight loss
• Lack of interest in food and treats

How to keep your dog cool and comfortable over the summer

In addition to feeding your dog less over the summer, use these tips to help them keep their cool.

• Limit exercise: Take walks early in the morning or later at night, when temperatures are cooler. Avoid high-intensity exercise like agility or excessive playing.
• Offer plenty of shade: Make sure your dog always has somewhere shady to rest. Some dogs may prefer to stay inside the house, while others will enjoy resting in a shady spot in the garden.
• Offer plenty of water: Top up water bowls regularly, and add an extra bowl in case your dog is particularly thirsty. Some dogs enjoy chewing or licking ice cubes of fresh water or frozen bone broth – just make sure the broth is salt-free and suitable for dogs.
• Make cooling snacks: Frozen treats, such as homemade blueberry yogurt cubes, can help your dog stay cool and hydrated.
• Use dog-safe sunscreen: If your dog has light-coloured skin, they’re at higher risk of sunburn. Apply a dog-safe sunscreen on their nose, ears and other light areas.
• Avoid car journeys: If possible, don’t take your dog in the car when it’s very hot. If you have to travel, bring plenty of water and offer this to your dog regularly. Never leave your dog in a hot car, even for a moment.

Why does my dog get diarrhoea in the summer?

Diarrhoea in dogs can be more common in the summer. This can be due to several reasons, including the following:

• Overheating
• Dehydration
• Intestinal parasites

If you’re concerned about your dog’s diarrhoea, it’s always best to speak to your vet for advice. If you have dog insurance with Petplan, you can also use the Pet Expert Chat feature to talk with an expert, 24/7. Simply log in to your My Petplan account and go to the My Support area to access.