10 Tips to Ease Your Dog into Fall Time Changes

Dogs don’t care about the clocks you change to the end of daylight saving time; they care about when they eat, walk, and nap. When fall rolls around, those sudden timing shifts you do to the clock can throw them for a loop. But don’t worry—you can make the adjustment easy with these ten practical tips. Let’s get their tails wagging again!
Shift Mealtimes Gradually

Your dog’s stomach is like a finely tuned alarm clock—always on time, no matter what. About a week before the clock changes, adjust meals by 10 minutes each day. This trick prevents your pup from barking for dinner while you’re still making coffee. Slow and steady wins this race to routine!
Use Morning Walks to Reset Their Rhythm

Did you know dogs rely on sunlight to understand the day? Taking your dog out first thing in the morning, especially in natural light, helps their internal clock adjust. Plus, an extra stroll never hurt anyone. Just think of fewer midnight zoomies and more quiet evenings for you.
Don’t Let the Treat Jar Be a Shortcut

Your dog might beg for snacks at their “old” mealtime, but don’t cave! Overfeeding can throw off their digestion and lead to weight gain. Instead, distract them with play or a chew toy until the new schedule feels normal. Remember, it’s not just about timing—it’s about keeping them healthy and happy.
Stick to Consistent Wake-Up Times

Waking up at the same time daily gives your dog a solid anchor in their routine. Even on weekends, resist the urge to sleep in (we know it’s tempting). Dogs thrive on predictable mornings, and keeping them consistent after the clock change will ease their adjustment. Coffee is your best friend here.
Plan for a Longer Walk After Work

Evenings feel shorter when the clocks fall back, so consider a longer post-work walk to burn off extra energy. Your pet will like the fresh air and exercise, and it’ll make them more likely to settle into the new schedule. It’s a great time to stretch your legs, too, and bond with your pup.
Add an Evening Wind-Down Routine

As days get shorter, help your dog understand bedtime by dimming the lights or playing calming music in the evening. It’s like Netflix-and-chill for dogs, minus the screen. Creating these cues before bedtime helps them relax and adapt to the earlier sunsets without a fuss.
Watch for Sleep Pattern Changes

A tired pup is a happy pup—but an overtired one? Not so much. Dogs might experience disrupted sleep during the transition, which leads to restlessness or extra naps. So, keep an eye on how much sleep they’re getting, and adjust walks or playtime to help them feel balanced.
Lean Into Their Favorite Comforts

Comfort items, like blankets and squeaky toys, can help your doggo feel secure when everything else seems off. These familiar objects act as an anchor that reassures them about the time change. If they look at you like, “Why is breakfast late?”—offer a snuggle instead. It works every time.
Be Patient With Their Adjustment

No two dogs adapt the same way—some might be fine in a day, while others need a week. So, stay calm, supportive, and consistent. Patience is your secret weapon here. The more relaxed you are, the faster your pup will settle into the new routine. After all, they’re trying their best!
Keep Commands Simple During the Shift

Dogs can feel extra confused during routine changes, so now’s not the time for fancy tricks. Stick to basic directions like “sit” and “stay” during the adjustment period. Save “rollover” for another week. Their focus might be off, and simpler requests mean less stress for both of you.