Boppard. If the clocks are put on an hour again on October 26, this means an additional hour of sleep for many people. For dogs, however, the changeover to winter time can be a small challenge. Many four-legged friends react sensitively to changes in their daily routine such as feeding or gas pages, and the changeover can affect their biorhythm.
Suddenly to have to wait for the food for an hour longer or to get out later than usual, cause irritation in some dogs. They become restless, push into the door earlier or sit expectantly in front of the bowl. Particularly sensitive animals react with stress or discomfort.
Tips for changing time
Animal experts therefore recommend that the changeover do not abruptly but gradually. Anyone who shifts the feeding and walks a day a few days before the time change a day makes it easier for the dog to adjust. In this way, the new rhythm is almost unnoticed into everyday life.
Patience and serenity are also crucial. Dogs feel the mood of their owners very precisely. Those who stay calm and consistently introduce the new daily routine conveys security. As a rule, the animals get used to winter time within a few days.
- Gradually adjust routine: A few days before the changeover, moving the feeding and walking times a day by five to ten minutes. So the dog gets used to the new rhythm almost unnoticed.
- Show patience and serenity: Dogs feel the mood of their owners very precisely. Those who stay calm and consistently introduce the new daily routine convey security and make it easier to adjust.
- Create compensation through employment: When the dog becomes restless, small games, chewing articles or short training sessions can help bridge the waiting time and reduce stress.
Winter time also brings with it shorter days and longer nights. This means that the evening rounds often take place in the dark. It is advisable to use reflective collars, lights or safety lights that are reflective in dusk or darkness in order to increase the visibility of the dog and thus ensure safety. Appropriate clothing with reflectors is also useful for the owner.
The time change is not an insurmountable problem for dogs, but can cause confusion at short notice. With small adjustments, clear routines and understanding on the part of the owner, the changeover succeeds stress -free until on March 29, 2026 it means: present watches by an hour. (SR)