As the air cools and days grow shorter, our pets can experience subtle changes in comfort, energy, and behavior.
We asked Bob Menardi, DVM, ElleVet’s Senior Director of Learning & Development, to answer common questions from pet parents about shifting into colder weather, and to share some tips to keep pets comfortable, calm, and thriving as the season changes.
Question: Why is my dog or cat acting clingier now that the days are shorter?
Dr. Menardi: It probably has less to do with short days than the changes in lifestyle that come with fall weather. The kids are back at school, there’s less activity around the house, and often less outdoor time with the family. Any change in routine, especially one that tends to limit the things your dog enjoys, can make them more stressed and clingy.
Question: Is my pet stressed because the kids are back in school?
Dr. Menardi: If your pet has gotten used to the activity and attention that comes with kids, the beginning of the school year can be a stressful time. Try to keep to as regular a routine as possible and your dog will soon adjust to the new schedule.
Question: Why is my pet eating more (or less) this time of year?
Dr. Menardi: Stress can manifest in many different ways, including changes in appetite. (Yes, dogs sometimes stress eat!). You may notice other behavior changes as well if your dog is stressed. It’s never a bad idea to plan a quick trip to the veterinarian for an exam to be sure that there is not some other underlying health issue.
Question: My pet seems restless at night now. Could the season be to blame?
Dr. Menardi: Restlessness at night can be a sign of stress that comes with changing weather and activity schedules. Establishing a set routine and sticking to it is one of the most effective ways to help your dog manage stress when everything else is changing around them. Regular and predictable exercise, mealtimes, bedtimes, and attention from you can help dogs sleep better at night. Again, with any behavior changes, a check-up with the veterinarian is to rule out a medical cause.
Question: Could the cooler weather make my pet uncomfortable or cause stress?
Dr. Menardi: Maybe! Less exercise due to weather can affect joint mobility. If it’s too cold or wet out, that’s no fun either. Dogs are happiest when there is some structure and routine to their day. If they are not getting as much stimulation or exercise, that can certainly also cause some stress.
So, bundle up and get out there with your dog regularly! If that’s not possible, try some indoor games or stimulating toys in the house.
Question: Why is my pet suddenly chewing or scratching at doors and furniture?
Dr. Menardi: Stress or boredom can lead to some pretty inconvenient behaviors. First, be sure that there is not a medical or dental reason for the behavior change. After that, build some stimulating time in your daily routine for your dog. Redirecting to a stimulating toy may help, as will regular exercise.
The Bottom Line
The change in seasons can have an effect on pets, which may show up as situational stress or discomfort. The change in schedule once the kids go back to school along with colder weather leading to less time for outdoor activities are just two of the possible reasons. The good news is that there are things you can do to help, including keeping them on a regular routine and making time, even in the cold weather, for dog walks or playing outdoors.
If your pet could use support, consider ElleVet’s CBD + CBDA products, clinically proven to help promote mobility, calm behavior, and joint health, so your four-legged family members can savor every season in comfort.
It’s always a good idea to check in with your veterinarian if you feel there’s something more going on that may require a vet visit.
Meet the Veterinarian
Robert Menardi, DVM is the Senior Director of Learning & Development with ElleVet Sciences. He leads the company’s comprehensive veterinary technical education and outreach programs and serves as the subject matter expert for members of the veterinary profession. Dr. Menardi has worked in the veterinary medical cannabinoid arena since 2019, with key roles in education, commercialization, and research and development. Dr. Menardi worked in private clinical practice for 12 years after graduating from Colorado State University in 1990 with his DVM degree and has held several leadership roles in the animal health industry prior to joining ElleVet.
Any health or medical information in ElleVet blogs is from a variety of public and reputable sources. This information is intended as an educational resource only and is not a substitute for expert professional care.