The falling back of daylight savings happens this weekend, and while you may be excited to enjoy an extra hour of sleep, your pup’s entire schedule is about to be thrown off.

Animals rely on daylight to dictate their days and habits. They can’t read a clock, so they don’t know that they get a walk around 7:30am each day. When the time change happens, there is an abrupt shift in what they are used to, and suddenly they are expected to wait an extra hour before relieving themselves, playing, or even eating. It doesn’t seem like much to us, but it can cause a bit of anxiety for your pet.

Take the next few days to start transitioning your pup into his new schedule. You will both be happier come Sunday morning.

Help Your Dog Adjust to Daylight Savings

Working in 15 minute increments each day, push your morning routine: 

• Wake up time – If you wait to get out of bed by a few extra minutes each morning, it will be the simplest way to guide this transition.

• Meal time – Some experts say that you should feed your dog at the same time every day, no matter what. This means that instead of pushing meal time back, you simply feed him an hour earlier during fall daylight savings or an hour later during spring. However, other experts say that a smooth transition is fine.

• Walks – This is the hardest part for your pup, and it will take the longest to adjust to. Have patience if your dog starts whining before you are ready to grab the leash. 

• Playtime – Just like a toddler, your pup thrives on a schedule, including when it’s okay to play. Don’t brush him off but use rewards to help him wait a bit each day before play time. 

• Bedtime – You may be ready for bed while your pup is ready to play a bit longer. Try to encourage some early snuggle time to calm him down. (And make sure he gets plenty of play time throughout the day.)

If you cannot accomplish this due to your schedule, make sure you take the time to wake up early starting Sunday and transition your dog slowly that way. It may take up to two weeks, but you will be able to get him adapted to the new time.