Star Paws: Even canines get SAD – right here’s the right way to assist your pooch beat winter blues
With the nights drawing in, even the cheeriest of pups can find their tails starting to sag. Luckily Star Paws columnist Catherine Lamb is here with some helpful advice
The shorter days and darker nights can leave us feeling down, and it’s the same for our furry friends.
While dogs may not experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in the same way as us, the winter months can impact their mood.
If you’ve noticed behavioural or appetite changes, that your pooch is sleeping more, is reluctant to play or walk, and is lethargic then they may be feeling a bit down.
Here’s how to beat your pet’s winter blues…
- Play indoors. Set up an obstacle course in your home to keep them entertained, or play a game together. You can also use food puzzles to keep them mentally stimulated.
- Keep them warm. If your pooch gets cold on walks, wrap them up in a nice warm coat. Make sure they have a cosy bed with plenty of blankets to snuggle up to at home as well.
- Arrange a playdate. Meet friends or family members with dogs at the park so your pups can have a run around together and burn off some energy.
Twist in the tail
We’re often told that a wagging tail means a happy dog, but this isn’t always the case.
I was recently watching a popular kid’s TV show with my daughter and they mentioned this particular myth. It made me realise how many people don’t understand canine body language.
Our dogs use their tails to communicate with us, and while a wagging tail often can mean that a pooch is happy, it can also indicate that they are stressed, worried or curious.
Here’s how to tell what your dog’s wag means…
- Big, carefree wags are a surefire sign that a pup is happy. If these are accompanied by a body wiggle then the dog is filled with joy.
- A high and fast wagging tail indicates that a pooch is incredibly excited about something.
- A slow and gentle wag indicates that a dog is unsure and curious about something.
- A smooth and sweeping tail means the pooch is relaxed and comfortable.
- A tucked and slow wagging tail indicates that a dog is worried and unsure. If their tail is tucked and not wagging they are really anxious and need some space.
Product of the Week
Pigs in Blankets Dog Advent Calendar
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