As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, I’ve noticed my own energy levels taking a bit of a hit. It turns out, I’m not the only one—our canine companions can struggle with the seasonal shift just as much as we do. A veterinarian has revealed that dogs can suffer from their own version of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and there are six key signs every owner should watch for.
While we often think of our pets as endlessly happy-go-lucky, the lack of sunlight and reduced outdoor activity in winter can seriously impact their mood.[1][2] The expert explains that this condition is caused by a disruption in melatonin and serotonin levels, similar to what happens in humans.[2] If your dog seems a bit “off” lately, it might not just be boredom.[1][2][3][4][5][6]
Here are the six signs of winter depression to look out for.
1. A Sudden Change in Appetite
One of the clearest indicators that something is wrong is a shift in eating habits.[2][5] The vet notes that some dogs might lose interest in their food, leaving meals untouched.[2][4][5] Conversely, others might try to comfort themselves by eating more than usual, begging for scraps more often than they typically would.[2]
2. Sleeping More Than Usual
We all love a good nap on a rainy afternoon, but excessive sleeping is a red flag.[2] If you find that your dog is spending significantly more time dozing during the day or is harder to rouse in the morning, their internal clock might be out of sync due to the lack of natural light.[2]
3. General Lethargy
Beyond just sleeping, a depressed dog often lacks their usual “spark.”[2] You might notice they are moving slower or seem enthusiastic about things that usually excite them.[2][3][4][5][7] If the tail wagging has stopped or they seem to drag their feet around the house, the winter gloom could be to blame.[2]
4. Losing Interest in Play and Walks
I know my dog usually runs to the door at the sound of a leash, so this sign is particularly telling. A dog suffering from winter blues might refuse to play with their favorite toys or seem reluctant to go outside for walks.[1][2][3] They might simply stand there or try to turn back toward the warmth of the house immediately.
5. Weight Gain
This often goes hand-in-hand with lethargy and appetite changes.[2] With fewer calories burned from running around outside and potentially more “comfort eating,” the pounds can creep on quickly.[2] The veterinarian advises keeping a close eye on their waistline during the colder months to prevent long-term health issues.[2]
6. Behavioral Changes like Clinginess or Withdrawal
Finally, mood shifts can manifest in how they interact with you.[2][5] Some dogs become “velcro dogs,” following you everywhere for reassurance.[2] Others might do the opposite, hiding away in quiet corners and avoiding interaction entirely.[2][5]
How You Can Help
If you spot these signs, the advice is simple: try to maximize their exposure to daylight.[2][8] Moving their bed closer to a window or taking walks during the brightest part of the day can help reset their circadian rhythm.[2] Keeping them engaged with indoor games and puzzles is also a great way to lift their spirits.[2]
Have you noticed any of these changes in your dog since winter started? Let me know your experiences in the comments!
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