How To Transition Your Dog to Daylight Savings Time

When we spring forward and set our clocks an hour ahead, it can leave us feeling groggy and out of sync for a few days. Now, imagine how dogs feel when their daily routines are suddenly shifted! Dogs thrive on consistency, and daylight savings time can disrupt their internal schedule, affecting their feeding times, potty breaks, and sleep patterns.

How Does Daylight Savings Time Affect Dogs?

Dogs are highly in tune with natural light cycles. They often wake when the sun rises and wind down after sunset. Unlike humans, they don’t rely on clocks to tell them when it’s time to eat, go for a walk, or sleep. Instead, they follow their internal biological clocks—also known as circadian rhythms—which are influenced by natural sunlight.

When daylight savings time arrives, their daily routines suddenly shift. Breakfast might be delayed, walks may be rescheduled, and bedtime may feel “off.” This can lead to confusion, restlessness, and even a bit of grumpiness as they adjust.

How to Help Your Dog Adjust to Daylight Savings Time

For most dogs, the time change is a minor disruption that resolves within a few days. However, some dogs—especially those with strict routines—may struggle more with the transition. Here are some tips to help your dog adjust smoothly:

1. Gradually Adjust Your Dog’s Schedule

Instead of changing your dog’s routine all at once, try adjusting it gradually in the days leading up to daylight savings time. Shift feeding times, walks, and bedtime by 10-15 minutes each day so the transition isn’t as abrupt.

2. Maintain a Consistent Routine

Dogs thrive on predictability, so sticking to a set schedule is key. Even if the time on the clock changes, keeping their routine consistent—such as feeding them at the same relative time each day—will help them adapt more quickly.

3. Increase Exercise and Mental Stimulation

If your dog seems restless or has trouble adjusting, longer walks or extra playtime can help burn off excess energy and promote better sleep. A tired dog is less likely to be anxious about the schedule shift.

4. Be Patient and Offer Comfort

Some dogs may become more vocal, anxious, or confused during the transition. Providing extra comfort, reassurance, and positive reinforcement will help them feel more at ease. If your dog is particularly sensitive to changes, consider offering a calming supplement or using a soothing routine before bed.

5. Use Natural Light to Reset Their Internal Clock

Since dogs rely on sunlight to regulate their circadian rhythms, exposing them to natural light in the morning can help their bodies adjust. Try going for an early morning walk to help reset their internal clock to the new schedule.

The good news is that because our dogs are so in tuned to the environment, the longer days of spring and summer will encourage them to be more active. So, take advantage of this and spend some time outside outdoors with your dog and/or take longer walks!

Are Cats Affected By Daylight Savings?

While cats are also influenced by their circadian rhythms, they tend to be less affected by daylight savings time than dogs. Since many indoor cats have more flexible schedules and don’t rely on their owners for outdoor potty breaks, the time change is less disruptive for them.

However, if your cat has a strict feeding schedule, they may still notice the shift and become vocal if meals are served later than expected. Gradually adjusting their feeding times, just as you would with a dog, can help them transition more smoothly.

The Bottom Line

Most dogs will adjust to daylight savings time within a few days, though some may take a bit longer. By maintaining a consistent routine, gradually adjusting their schedule, and providing plenty of exercise and reassurance, you can help your dog transition smoothly. With a little patience, they’ll be back to their normal rhythm in no time!