How To Transition Your Dog When Switching Back to Standard Time

When we turn the clocks back in the fall, it’s actually the end of Daylight Saving Time (DST), and we revert to Standard Time. This shift means an extra hour of sleep for us, but it can confuse our pets, who rely on consistent routines rather than clocks.

When we "fall back" and set our clocks back an hour, we humans are sometime are affected by the time change. Imagine our dogs who don’t understand the time change and their whole routine is affected. In fact, dogs, who love their routines for feeding times, walks, potty breaks, and sleep, can feel unbalanced when their usual rhythms are suddenly shifted.

Here’s how reverting to standard time affects our dogs and how to ease the transition:

How Does Standard Time Affect Dogs?

As creatures of habit, dogs are highly responsive to natural light cycles. Many dogs start their day with the sunrise and wind down after sunset. This rhythm, known as the circadian rhythm, helps them anticipate daily events. When we shift back to standard time, the abrupt change in light cues and schedule can feel confusing to them. Feeding and bathroom times all shift, potentially causing a bit of stress as they adjust.

Dogs and Their Internal Clocks

Dogs, like us, have an internal clock that signals when to wake up, eat, and sleep. Known as the circadian rhythm, this biological timekeeper is influenced by natural light. When our clocks change, your dog’s internal clock is still operating at the old time, which may lead to early wake-ups, eagerness for breakfast an hour too soon, or confusion around evening routines. The transition can be especially noticeable in dogs who have a structured schedule or are particularly sensitive to routine changes.

How the Time Change Affects a Dog’s Schedule

The end of Daylight Saving Time can feel disruptive for dogs who rely on consistent schedules.

Below Are Some Common Routines That Are Affected by the Shift:

Bathroom Breaks:

Your dog may be used to going out early to eliminate in the morning. With the time change, they may feel the urge an hour earlier, which can disrupt their routine and yours.

Feeding Times:

Dogs with set mealtimes may be looking for food an hour ahead, potentially becoming restless or “asking” for their meal early.

Evening Routine:

The shift back to standard time may make evening walks feel earlier, with less daylight. Dogs who enjoy evening playtime or have set exercise times may be unsettled by this adjustment.

Tips for Helping Your Dog Adjust to Standard Time

While most dogs adjust to standard time within a few days to a week, a gradual transition can help ease them into the change.

Here’s how to make the adjustment smoother:

Adjust Gradually:

Leading up to the time change, shift your dog’s routine by 10-15 minutes each day. This way, by the time the clocks shift, they’ll already be mostly adapted to the new schedule.

Stick to a Regular Schedule:

Consistency is key. Keep as many routines the same as possible—such as wake-up, feeding, and bedtimes—even if it means minor adjustments. This regularity will help your dog adapt more quickly.

Add Extra Activity During the Day:

An extra walk or play session during the day can help your dog feel more relaxed and ready to adjust to the time change. Physical exercise, mental stimulation, and quality playtime can all help balance their routine.

Provide Comfort at Bedtime:

If your dog has trouble settling down in the evening, provide a calming environment with familiar blankets or a cozy area where they can wind down at their new bedtime.

Be Patient:

Your dog may be a little restless or clingy as they adjust, especially if they’re used to a very structured routine. Give them some time and understanding as they settle into the new rhythm.

Extra Tips for Sensitive Dogs

For dogs who are very sensitive to schedule changes, start the adjustment process a bit earlier, using smaller time increments if needed. You can also consider using interactive toys or food puzzles to help occupy and distract them during the transition.

Routine Reinforcement After the Adjustment

Once your dog has adjusted to the new schedule, reinforce this consistency by sticking to the routine. Dogs thrive with predictable timing, so the steadier you can keep things, the smother each seasonal time change will be.

The Bottom Line

Switching back to standard time may take some adjustment for both you and your dog. A few simple changes, like gradually adjusting feeding and potty times and staying consistent with routines, can help them settle in comfortably.

With patience and a steady schedule, your dog will be back in rhythm, ready to embrace the season’s new routines and enjoy a cozy fall with you!