Helping Your Dog Adjust to Time Changes in the UK
In the UK, we change the clocks twice a year. On the last Sunday of March, the clocks go forward an hour. On the last Sunday of October, they go back an hour.
As humans, we often find it mildly confusing. But for our dogs—who rely on consistency—it can be more unsettling.
Some dogs take it in their stride. Others become restless, anxious, or out of sync with their normal routine.
I’ve never had a strict routine for my own dogs, and they’ve never been affected by the change in clocks. But for many of my clients, especially those with set feeding or crate times, I’ve seen how dogs can struggle with the sudden shift.
What Happens When the Clocks Change?
Clocks Go Forward (March)
We lose an hour in the morning, but we gain lighter evenings. This can mean earlier wake-up calls and slightly rushed mornings.
Clocks Go Back (October)
We get the hour back, and our mornings start later. But the evenings become darker, and this often affects outdoor time, energy levels, and routines.
Dogs don’t read clocks. They go by light, smell, and routine. So when something shifts—even by an hour—it can take time for them to adjust.
How the Clocks Changing Affects Your Dog
Changes in Feeding Routines
Many dogs expect meals at the same time every day. When breakfast or dinner is late—or early—it can cause frustration, restlessness, or begging.
Sleep Disruption
If your dog is used to a bedtime routine, a sudden time change might throw them off. Some dogs struggle to settle or wake earlier than usual.
Separation Anxiety
In spring, when the evenings are lighter, we often stay out longer. For some dogs, this means being left alone for extended periods. If your dog already finds alone time difficult, this change can make things worse.
I’ve seen dogs become more vocal or destructive during these weeks. In some cases, accidents in the house can return, even if the dog is usually clean indoors.
Change in Walking Times
Dogs who walk at the same time each day may become confused if the time shifts. Some may wait by the door earlier than expected. Others may appear less motivated if their routine changes without warning.
Helping Your Dog When the Clocks Go Forward
Springing forward can be harder for some dogs than autumn. Losing an hour in the morning often means an earlier start, which your dog may not be ready for.
Here’s what I suggest:
- Don’t force your dog to wake up early.
- Start adjusting their routine 5–10 minutes earlier each day in the week before the change.
- Shift feeding, medication, and bedtime slowly.
- Keep the morning calm and allow extra time if they seem unsettled.
Helping Your Dog When the Clocks Go Back
Autumn usually means your dog wakes up earlier than needed, expecting breakfast or a walk. It can also feel like a long day, especially when it gets dark early.
My approach:
- Delay breakfast and walks by 10 minutes each day.
- Stick to the same level of activity, even if it’s darker.
- Use lights or high-vis gear if walking in the evening.
- Encourage calm behaviour with enrichment toys and indoor play.
Some dogs naturally adapt to the extra hour. But others benefit from a steady, gradual change.
Tips for Dogs Affected by Time Changes
1. Adjust Feeding and Medication Times Gradually
- Move meal and medication times by 10 minutes a day.
- Do this across 5–7 days, either side of the clock change.
- This helps avoid sudden hunger or stress.
2. Shift Bedtime and Crate Time
- If your dog goes into their crate or bed at a set time, begin moving this earlier or later as needed.
- Keep your routine the same (lights off, same words, etc.) but change the timing slightly each day.
3. Stay Active
- Take your dog for a walk before bedtime.
- This helps with restlessness and supports a healthy sleep routine.
- It also burns off any excess energy if they’re feeling unsettled.
4. Adjust Toilet Breaks
- Dogs often need to go out at the same time each day.
- Start moving this window to help them reset their body clock.
- For puppies or older dogs, this can be especially important.
Dogs and Lighter Evenings
When the clocks go forward, we get more daylight in the evenings. Most dogs love this—more time outside, more chances to sniff, and warmer weather.
But more time outside can also bring challenges:
- Wasps, stinging nettles, and insects are more common.
- Warmer weather may lead to overheating.
- Adders can be a risk in rural or woodland areas.
I always carry water and avoid overdoing it during the first warm weeks of the year. Dogs can struggle to regulate their temperature, especially if they’re still in winter mode.
Supporting Dogs Who Struggle with Routine Changes
If your dog is sensitive to change, the clock shifts can hit harder. They may pace, whine, struggle to settle, or show changes in appetite.
Here’s what I often recommend:
- Use calming enrichment like snuffle mats or licky mats
- Keep a consistent walking routine, even if the time varies slightly
- Provide a quiet, calm space where they can rest
- Avoid overstimulating environments during the first few days after the change
For some clients, I offer a short pop-in walk or home visit during this transition. It helps break up the day and gives the dog some consistency if their routine is shifting.
What I’ve Noticed Over the Years
The dogs who cope best with clocks changing are those who already have a calm, steady routine. They’re used to small changes and have built up flexibility.
The dogs who struggle most are often those who depend on fixed timings. It’s not wrong to have a routine—but adjusting it slowly makes a big difference.
If your dog is easily thrown off by changes in time, light, or human habits, the clock change is a good opportunity to introduce a bit more flexibility.
Need help supporting your dog through routine changes?
I offer solo dog walks and pop-in visits across Finchley, Muswell Hill, East Finchley, and nearby areas. I can help keep things consistent while you’re adjusting your routine—or just give your dog a bit of extra support.
Get in touch if you’d like to chat.