Can Dogs Suffer From Seasonal Depression? A Vet Explains

With cold days and long nights, it’s easy to get the winter blues. But did you know your pet can feel them, too? Even our furry friends can be affected by the colder temperatures and shorter daylight that winter brings. Dr. Gary Richter, D.V.M., a veterinarian of 27 years, is a practitioner of holistic integrative medicine and the founder of Ultimate Pet Nutrition. He explains what you should know about pets’ winter moods and how to keep your pet happy and healthy all winter long.

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“From a medical perspective, there is no clinical diagnosis of seasonal depression in animals,” Richter says. So medically, your pet can’t be formally diagnosed with seasonal depression in the same way as people can.

“However," Richter says, "it is without question that animals can suffer from emotional and mental distress, and there can be clear changes in pet behavior based on time of year.” In the winter, pets can behave in ways that mirror classic seasonal depression symptoms seen in people, like sleeping more, isolating from others, and irritability.

Pets may also be more anxious than usual or start showing “problem behaviors” like increased barking, chewing, or destruction due to boredom.

These depression-like behaviors are tied to the changes in environment and routine brought on by winter. Cold weather may mean pets get less exercise, which can lead to boredom and frustration.

The fact that there is less light during the day can also play a role. “Dogs are diurnal, so it may be that when it’s dark out, they’re going to be less active. Cats are more active at night, so they might be running around more in winter because there are more nighttime hours,” Richter explains.

“Maintaining a regular routine is key,” says Richter. Keep feeding and playtime consistent to help reduce anxiety and prevent depression-like symptoms. When cold weather makes outdoor exercise impossible, make sure to introduce other forms of mental and physical stimulation instead.

You can take your pet to a mall or a home improvement store for an indoor walk, or try a dog puzzle toy or treat dispenser to keep them mentally stimulated. And, of course, don’t forget to offer your pet plenty of love and attention: Spending quality time together can help both you and your pet cope with the winter blues.

Sarah Vincent (she/her) covers the latest and greatest in books and all things pets for Good Housekeeping. She double majored in Creative Writing and Criminal Justice at Loyola University Chicago, where she sat in the front row for every basketball game. In her spare time, she loves cooking, crafting, studying Japanese, and, of course, reading.