Are Dogs Affected by Daylight Saving Time?

Yes, dogs are affected by daylight saving time. Like many pets or other animals who live closely alongside humans, they are impacted by both the start and end of daylight saving time.  

“While they may not tell time like we do, our pets are very attuned to their daily routines, especially around mealtimes, walks, and sleep,” says Michael Q. Bailey, DVM, DACVR, a veterinarian and president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). “When those routines shift suddenly, it can throw them off for a few days.”  

Daylight saving time impacts your pup in a lot of the same ways it disrupts your own schedule.  

“Dogs who are used to eating at the same time every day may show signs of confusion, restlessness, or begging an hour earlier [or later] when the clocks change,” says Emily King, DVM, a veterinarian at All-Star Veterinary Clinic in Westfield, Indiana.  

“Their internal clocks don’t reset immediately, so they might seem extra hungry or unsettled.”  

Similarly, Dr. King says dogs who go for potty breaks or walks at the same time every day may feel the time shift. They might whine at the door to go out early, have accidents, or seem anxious, she says.  

Sleep and wake patterns are another way dogs are affected by daylight saving time.  

“The change in routine and daylight can throw off your pet’s internal clock, so your dog might seem groggy in the morning or more anxious at night as they try to adjust,” Dr. Bailey says.   

No doubt your pup is super excited to see you come home every day, and they’ve internalized exactly when you’re going to walk in the door or leave in the morning. During this transition period they might seem extra excited to see you, or they may experience separation anxiety.  

The signs your dog is affected by daylight saving time can be subtle. Look for these changes after the clock springs forward or falls back.  

• Restless energy or grogginess  
• Anxiety (can be accompanied by behavioral issues)  
• Accidents in the house 
• Waiting at the door to go to the bathroom  
• Whining or pacing around mealtime or potty breaks  
• Not interested in going to the bathroom  
• Extra hungry (or not as hungry) around mealtime  
• Very eager when you arrive home 

It takes most dogs a few days to about a week to adjust to daylight saving time. In some outlier cases—especially with senior dogs or puppies—Dr. King says it can take up to two weeks for a full adjustment.  

“As dogs settle into the new routine, you’ll notice them becoming more relaxed at the new meal and walk times,” Dr. Bailey adds. “Their alertness and energy will better align with the shifted schedule, and any signs of anxiety, such as pacing or whining, should diminish within a few days.”  

How can you help your dog adjust to the new schedule? Follow these expert tips:  

Gradual change is always best for dogs. If possible, Dr. Bailey says, start shifting your dog’s schedule by 10–15 minutes a day in the week leading up to the time change. This will make things feel less abrupt once the clock resets.  

Once the time changes and you’re officially on a new schedule, Dr. King recommends sticking to it as closely as possible. This helps them settle in and better understand there’s been a permanent change. (Well, until daylight saving time switches again.)  

If your pup seems anxious, do your best to create a soothing environment. A ThunderShirt  has been shown to calm anxious pups, and cam, quiet spaces are also helpful.  

Make sure their kennel is extra cozy, and try to remain calm yourself. “Extra affection, mental stimulation, and predictability help reassure dogs while their internal clock catches up,” Dr. King says. 

Interactive play, training sessions, long walks, or puzzle toys can also help distract and calm pets who seem unsettled, Dr. Bailey notes. The Nocciola Ribbon Eel Snuffle Squeaky Stuffing-Free Plush Dog Toy is a fun one that gets high praise from pet parents, and you can’t go wrong with a Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher Dog Toy.  

Along with helping distract them, mental and physical activity can wear them out so they sleep better at night, and it’s also a great bonding opportunity. As always, reach out to your veterinarian if your pet is showing signs of prolonged stress or behavioral changes.