Do dogs eat less in summer?

Quick takeaways about summer appetite loss

• The heat can affect your dog’s digestive system and appetite levels.
• Dogs, like cats, could eat up to 15% less during the summer months.
• Try feeding frozen treats, hydrating foods and adjusting mealtimes to cooler times of day.

Evening walks, more time outside and trips to the beach – summer is perhaps the best time of year for dog owners.
But, have you ever noticed that your pooch doesn’t feel like eating as much during the warmer months?

Dogs, just like humans, can be affected by seasonal changes. And the summer heat in particular can change their appetite.

It’s unclear exactly why pets might eat less in the summer. But, one recent six-year study on cats found they ate around 15% less in the warmer months. Researchers think this is down to changing temperatures and daylight hours.

Here’s what you need to know about the changes that summer can bring for your pooch.

 

Why do dogs eat less during summer?

The summer heat can affect your dog’s digestion and appetite, here’s why:
 

1. Moving less

When temperatures soar, your dog could become less active. You might notice that they power down a bit – preferring to laze in the shade than chase a toy around.
Because they’re expending less energy, they might not need to get as much energy from their food and calories during hotter days.

 

2. Hormonal changes

More daylight and higher temperatures might cause changes in your dog. Their metabolism can slow down and they might digest food slower.

 

3. Hotter temperatures and discomfort

Dogs might not fancy their food when they’re uncomfortably hot or busy using energy trying to stay cool.

 

What are the signs of appetite loss?

It’s always a good idea to keep track of your dog’s eating habits – particularly during the hotter months when their appetite might decrease naturally.
Some of the common signs of decreased appetite include:

• Lack of interest in food or treats
• Leaving food
• Lethargy
• Weight loss

Speak to a vet if you’re worried, or if your dog is refusing to eat altogether. Sometimes, decreased appetite can also be caused by some underlying conditions, infections or dental problems.

 

Should I feed my dog a different diet in the summer?

No, you don’t need to change up their diet – especially if they’re already eating a complete and balanced raw food like Natures Menu.

If you notice that your dog is leaving some of their food at mealtimes, you could try reducing their treats in the day. Or, you could switch them to lighter proteins like chicken or turkey.

 

Which foods help to keep dogs cool?

In the summer, it’s important to help your dog stay healthy, hydrated and well-fed. Here are some ideal food and treat ideas for summer:

1. Frozen treats

Try spreading a little plain yoghurt or mashed banana on a licking mat; or filling a Kong and popping it in the freezer.

Licking treats for longer will help your dog keep calm and cool in the heat.

Our frozen raw bones are perfect too – the act of chewing and gnawing can be very mentally stimulating for dogs, especially if they don’t feel like being as active.

Dogs can also snack on frozen fruits like strawberries and blueberries.

 

2. Hydrating foods

Encouraging your dog to drink more on hotter days can be challenging. So, you can turn to foods that are high in water like watermelon and cucumber. Just be sure to remove any seeds or pits and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces.

And remember that treats should account for about 10% of your dog’s daily food allowance.

 

3. Healthier bites

If you’ve noticed your dog isn’t eating as much at mealtimes, reducing their treats can help. Or, try switching high-fat treats like cheese to lighter bites. Our superfood bars are perfect or you could try fresh fruit and veg like carrots or green beans.

 

When should I feed my dog during the warmer months?

If you’ve noticed your dog turning their nose up at their food during summer, you could mix up feeding time. Your pooch might prefer eating in the early mornings and late evenings when it’s cooler.

 

Tips to help your dog eat in the heat

If you’ve noticed your dog’s appetite change in the summer, don’t panic. Here are some things you can do to get them excited for dinner time:
 

1. Feed them somewhere cool and shaded

Always try to find a cool, quiet place to feed your dog. And, never leave their food (raw or dry) out for long periods.

 

2. Switch up their food

Enticing your dog with different proteins or different recipes (like you’ll find on our personalised raw meal plans) can help when their appetite drops a bit. You could also try adding healthy food toppers like bone broth or fresh blueberries.

 

3. Adjust meal times

When it’s hot, your pup’s mind might be distracted away from food as they focus on trying to stay cool and rehydrating themselves.

You could try feeding your dog earlier or later when the temperatures are cooler.

 

4. Make sure their water is topped up

Make sure your dog always has access to cold, fresh water. You could even put out bowls inside and out so they can hydrate regularly.

Or, throw in a few ice cubes to keep it nice and cool. And, if your dog isn’t loving their raw food or you’ve just started transitioning, there are some easy ways to help them adjust.

Check out our tips to help them love their raw diet – from changing up the texture to meal enrichment ideas.
 

Try a personalised meal plan with quality, natural raw ingredients to help keep your dog healthy and happy.