The arrival of a new season brings a host of tangible changes: longer days, warmer weather and flora and fauna coming back to life. It's the kind of change that naturally puts a spring in our step, bringing a surge of energy and optimism.
But we're not the only ones feeling spring's powerful impact. Our dogs, too, are acutely attuned to the subtle transformations happening all around them.
At this time of year, dog owners may begin to notice a curious change in their pet's behaviour. Once calm and responsive companions may suddenly appear more energetic and restless or reluctant to return when called.
This phenomenon is dubbed 'spring fever', although the term is slightly misleading as it's less about a sudden boost in energy and more about the natural world stirring into action.
“Spring fever in dogs isn’t about a change in energy levels, it’s a response to a sudden increase in environmental stimulation, with new smells, pollen and wildlife all appearing at once, which can overwhelm their senses and override even the best dog’s recall,” explains Chris Maxted, director of front door safety gate Dog-G8.
That unmistakable spring scent in the air, the hum of insects, birdsong in the trees – these aren't just pleasant background details for dogs. With their extraordinarily sensitive noses and finely tuned hearing, they experience these stimuli at a much higher intensity than us humans.
And while it's heartening to think of our four-legged friends revelling in spring's joys as much as we do, there's a more challenging side to this heightened awareness.
“That surge in stimulation can lead to dogs becoming more impulsive,” Chris continues, “so behaviours like ignoring recall, pulling on the lead or trying to bolt through open doors become much more common at this time of year.”
In addition to behavioural changes, some dogs may also exhibit physical symptoms such as sneezing or coughing, alongside increased restlessness and excitability. In more serious cases, this distraction can lead to dogs wandering off or becoming lost, which is why the season is marked by National Lost Dog Awareness Day on 23 April.
If you’ve noticed your dog behaving differently, it’s a sensible moment to revisit routines and take a few safety precautions.
“Putting simple controls in place, whether that’s reinforcing training, keeping your dog on leash more often, or managing entry points at home, can make a noticeable difference in keeping dogs safe,” Chris advises.
With a little awareness and care, spring can remain a season of shared enjoyment rather than unexpected worry, allowing both you and your dog to make the most of the countryside's most uplifting time of year.
Must-have dog walking accessories
Oliver Bonas Green & Blue Stripe Poop Bag Holder
Clip this super-stylish poop bag holder onto your dog's lead so you'll never be caught without bags.
Bath Country Pets Tweed Treat Bag & Dog Treats
Keep a ready supply of treats in this handy pouch to help with recall. By using the same container each walk, your dog will associate it with treats which speeds up recall.
Earth Rated Earth Rated Dog Poo Bags
Make sure you're never left without poop bags. These eco-friendly bags are super strong and lavender scented to make scooping as pleasant as it can be!
Wanda Sachs is the Multiplatform Writer for Country Living and House Beautiful, exploring the latest in gardening, wildlife and sustainable living alongside interiors and property. She is particularly interested in human-interest stories, the intersection of design and pop culture, and the evolving relationship between urban and rural life. Previously, she served as Associate Editor at The Berliner in Berlin, where she reported on culture and fashion. Wanda studied English and German at the Goethe University Frankfurt and Exeter University.
