How Weather Changes Affect Your Dog’s Energy Levels
- Mirabella M
- 4 minutes ago
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever noticed your dog zooming around the house on a crisp fall morning or dragging their paws on a hot summer afternoon, you’re not imagining things. Just like humans, dogs are affected by seasonal shifts, temperature changes, and even barometric pressure. As a dog-walking company, we see it every day: the weather can dramatically influence how energetic (or sleepy!) your pup feels.
Here’s a breakdown of why it happens and how you can help your dog stay comfortable and active year-round.
1. Cold Weather: The Fall & Winter Energy Boost
Many dogs get a burst of energy when the weather cools down.
Why it happens:
Cooler temps make physical activity easier and more comfortable.
Dogs with thicker coats (huskies, shepherds, doodles, etc.) are naturally built for colder weather.
Crisp air stimulates the senses and brings new smells!
What we see on walks:
Longer sniffing sessions
More playful behavior
Fewer breaks and more steady movement
What you can do:
Take advantage of the cooler weather with longer or more frequent walks.
Layer short-coated or small dogs with a jacket.
Keep an eye on paw pads for ice or irritation.
2. Hot Weather: Slower Pace and Lower Stamina
Heat drains energy for dogs, often way more than for humans.
Why it happens:
Dogs can’t sweat the way we do, so overheating happens faster.
Humidity affects dogs much more intensely than temperature alone.
Hot pavement can make walks uncomfortable or unsafe.
What we see on walks:
Dogs needing more breaks
A slower pace or shorter tolerance for activity
More panting, even in the shade
What you can do:
Walk during early morning or late evening.
Keep water handy.and stick to the shade.
Avoid asphalt and go for grass whenever possible.
3. Rain, Wind, and Stormy Weather: Every Dog Reacts Differently
Some dogs love the rain; others feel like the sky is falling.
Why it happens:
Wind carries scents in unusual ways, making the environment overstimulating or confusing.
Rain can be uncomfortable or startling for noise-sensitive dogs.
Storms and pressure changes can trigger anxiety.
What we see on walks:
Hesitant dogs stopping at the door
Nervous pacing or jumpiness
Some dogs thriving in rain (usually the goofy ones!)
What you can do:
Use a well-fitted raincoat to keep your pup dry.
Keep walk times shorter during storms.
Give anxious pups a calm, structured routine.
4. Barometric Pressure: The Invisible Mood Changer
Humans may barely notice it, but many dogs do.
Why it happens:
Pressure drops before storms can make some dogs uneasy.
Joint pain in older dogs can flare up with pressure changes.
Dogs with anxiety often show more clinginess or restlessness.
What you can do:
Stick to predictable walk times when possible.
Provide mental enrichment at home on “off” days.
Consider supplements or vet-approved support for joint issues.
5. Seasonal Daylight Changes: More Darkness, Different Rhythms
As daylight shifts, so do dogs’ natural rhythms.
Why it happens:
Dogs are influenced by natural light cycles.
Less daylight means dogs may sleep more and feel less active.
Humans walk less in winter, which also reduces canine movement.
What you can do:
Keep a consistent walk routine even if it’s dark.
Use reflective gear and lights for safety.
Add indoor enrichment (snuffle mats, puzzles, scent games).
6. How We Help as a Dog-Walking Company
We tailor every walk to your dog’s seasonal needs.
Hot day? We keep it shaded and slow.
Cold day? More movement, but always checking for comfort.
Stormy day? Extra patience, reassurance, and a plan that fits your dog’s comfort level.
Low-energy week? Gentle pacing and enrichment instead of pushing hard exercise.
Weather impacts dogs in countless ways, but with the right approach, they can stay happy, active, and safe all year long.
The Right Fluff Pet Sitting offers professional, loving, and reliable dog walking and cat sitting services in Montgomery County, MD. We serve dog and cat owners across Rockville, Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg/Germantown and surrounding communities.
New clients can get started and book dog walking or pet sitting services using this form. Existing clients can log into their account to request services using this link.
More information on our pet care services can be found on our website or by contacting us by email at info@rightfluff.com or by calling us at 240-447-9523 to learn more.