Start spring well with your dog

• Does the dog behave differently in spring?
• The change of fur
• Parasite and fitness check
• Dangers in the garden

Boppard. A good start to spring feels like a little fresh start for many dogs. Nature is waking up, the days are getting longer, and suddenly everything seems to smell much more exciting. For us humans this is often a moment of relief – for dogs it is a real boost of energy that is clearly noticeable in everyday life.

But the change of season brings with it more than just a good mood and longer walks. Dog owners should know how the hormonal balance changes and what hidden dangers lurk for the dog in the garden at home.

Spring: Does the dog behave differently now?
In fact, the “spring awakening” in dogs is not an illusion. For many dogs, the first green light changes their daily rhythm. More light means more activity, and rising temperatures stimulate metabolism. The body releases more serotonin and endorphins, while the sleep hormone melatonin decreases. The result: Many dogs suddenly appear significantly more energetic, playful or even cocky.

Especially in uncastrated animals, the hormones are now doing somersaults. Nature awakens, smells are perceived more intensely and searching for clues becomes a priority along the way. Owners shouldn't be surprised if their otherwise obedient companion suddenly switches their ears to the pull – instincts are often stronger than training in spring.

Typical spring changes in dogs are:

• More urge to move thanks to pleasant temperatures.
• Stronger sniffing and exploring behavior.
• Hormonal changes that can affect territorial behavior.
• Change of fur, which places additional demands on the body.
• Greater distractibility through new stimuli in nature.

These changes are normal and show how closely dogs are connected to the environment.

Dangers in the garden
Your own garden seems like a safe place to retreat, but especially in spring there are risks that are easily overlooked. Many of these involve plants, fertilizers or insects – things that make dogs curious but are not always harmless. Typical spring dangers in the garden include:

• Poisonous early bloomers such as tulips, daffodils, hyacinths or lily of the valley. The onions are particularly problematic.
• Dfertilizers and pesticides, which can be irritating or toxic. Organic fertilizers such as horn shavings are even eaten by some dogs.
• compost heap, in which mold can form.
• garden tools, which become a tripping hazard in the heat of the moment.
• ticks and other parasites, which become active with the first warm days.

Caution is also required when gardening. Chemical fertilizers, slug pellets or freshly applied bark mulch can cause poisoning or irritation. Also make sure not to leave garden tools such as scissors or rakes lying around to avoid cuts on the paws.

Parasite and fitness check
With the first high temperatures, the ticks are more active again. Early protection through spot-ons, collars or tablets is now essential. In addition, owners should increase training slowly. If you've been out and about comfortably all winter, you shouldn't take your dog for a two-hour walk at the first ray of sunshine. The joints and fitness must first be carefully built up again.

The change of fur
An unmistakable sign of spring is the “wool invasion” in the home. The dog sheds its thick winter coat to make room for its lighter summer coat. This process costs the organism a lot of energy. Support your animal by brushing it daily. This not only promotes blood circulation in the skin, but also strengthens the bond and ensures that the loose undercoat does not clog the pores.

With a little mindfulness and the right preparation, nothing stands in the way of an energetic start to the season for people and dogs. As temperatures now rise, please provide plenty of water as dogs can become dehydrated more quickly. Enjoy the time together – after all, the “dog spring feelings” are contagious! (SR)