November 11, 2026, 4:49 am | Read time: 5 minutes
When it’s long dark, cold, and gray outside, it affects many people’s moods. But can dogs also develop a kind of winter depression? Less daylight, cold, and a changed metabolism can impact the psyche and behavior of our four-legged friends. An expert explains to PETBOOK how owners can recognize possible signs and how they can support their dog during the dark season.
What causes winter depression in dogs?
The main factor is the significantly reduced amount of daylight in the fall and winter months, which can negatively affect hormones over time and cause a vitamin D deficiency. The production of serotonin, responsible for good mood and energy, decreases, along with the desire for activities and exercise.
Melatonin, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle, is automatically stimulated by the increased darkness. This leads to tiredness, lack of drive, and listlessness.
First signs of possible winter depression in dogs:
- less energy, increased sleeping
- withdrawal and lack of drive
- reduced interest and enthusiasm for play, training, or activities
- loss of appetite or increased eating
- sudden signs of aggression or fear
How do I know if my dog is suffering from winter depression?
A dog with a depressive mood shows similar behavior to humans. It appears tired and slow, especially in its behavior and movements. The dog’s sleep behavior increases during the day, while it may show unusual activity at night. The gaze sometimes appears indifferent or empty, and the face and lips droop slightly. The expression generally seems dissatisfied and sad.
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Disinterest in activities, lack of enthusiasm, and withdrawal can also affect walks. It seems as if everything is much more exhausting for the dog than usual. During this phase, more motivation than usual is needed. When walking, the dog shows a rather crouched posture with a tucked or little-moving tail. It may react more strongly to environmental stimuli and suddenly be more fearful or aggressive than usual. Excessive activity can also be a sign of psychological imbalance.
Owners should observe their dog particularly closely
Loss of appetite or increased eating are side effects of all the circumstances that can accompany a depressive mood. Other reasons for a psychological imbalance can be:
- grief,
- loss of a companion or person (changes in the home pack), signs of aging,
- pain
- or health problems (deficiencies, illnesses).
If this phase extends beyond the temporary winter depression, or if the depressive episode lasts unusually long or occurs suddenly, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian to examine the dog’s physical and mental health.
Also interesting: How your dog changes when it is truly sad
How can I help my dog out of a depressive mood?
Light is the best remedy against the winter blues, meaning the more sunlight or daylight, the better. Walks should take place as often as possible during the day, even if the sun isn’t shining. Additionally, a daylight lamp at home can provide extra, soothing brightness and a warm feeling.
Adequate exercise is especially important during this time. The dog should be kept warm and dry with a coat in cold, wet, and wintry temperatures or dried off immediately after a walk to prevent it from getting cold or catching a cold.
Even small trips or a short winter vacation provide distraction and variety. A day in the snow, the forest, or the mountains is a great way to get different thoughts. New impressions, experiences, smells, or dog acquaintances dispel listlessness and negative moods.
Together against the winter blues
When mood affects appetite, you can experiment in the “dog kitchen.” A bit of creativity is needed here to motivate the dog and encourage it to try something new. The possibilities are diverse, and great ideas can be implemented: recipes for dog biscuits, baking treats yourself, trying a vitamin-rich and healthy dog smoothie, or testing a lick mat keep the human-dog team busy and bring fun.
The whole thing can, of course, be linked with new games. Intelligence, search, or hide-and-seek games, sniffing and nose work (snuffle mat), joint sports exercises (e.g., yoga), or learning tricks are great ways to keep the dog meaningfully occupied and engaged. New, exciting indoor or outdoor activities always pique interest, motivate participation, and draw every dog out of its shell.
Cuddle and snuggle sessions round off the active part of the engagement. Shared relaxation time can now be used even more intensively for coat and paw care. A soothing brushing or wellness massage relaxes the muscles, promotes circulation, and makes one happy.
Also interesting: Which wellness and care treatments for dogs are sensible in winter
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Conclusion
Winter is the time when humans and animals are often tired, sluggish, and lacking drive. To ensure that the body, mind, and soul of our dogs are not neglected during this time, we can support them with simple means. Breaking the daily routine and motivating each other to try something new is good for both animal and human. Loving attention and targeted engagement together dispel boredom, bring joy, strengthen the bond, and the winter blues have no chance.
Sources
- Tierfreunde.org, “Winterdepression bei Tieren” (accessed on 11/11/2024)
- PetMD.com, “Can Dogs Get Seasonal Depression?” (accessed on 11/11/2024)