Daylight Saving Time & Your Dog

The Time Change Is Here… But Don’t Tell Your Dog

Today marks the start of Daylight Saving Time in the United States, and while we may be adjusting our coffee schedules and resetting the microwave clock, our dogs are wondering why breakfast is suddenly late.

Dogs thrive on routine. Their internal body clocks—often called circadian rhythms—are strongly tied to consistent daily patterns like feeding, walks, and bedtime. When the clock jumps forward an hour, many dogs notice immediately. Some may wake you up early, stare at their food bowl, or give you the classic “aren’t we supposed to be doing something right now?” look.

The good news? Most dogs adjust quickly. Experts recommend shifting routines gradually if possible—feeding, walks, and playtime by about 10–15 minutes each day leading up to the change. If that didn’t happen this year (no judgment here), simply keeping a consistent routine over the next few days helps your dog settle into the new schedule.

Regular exercise also plays an important role. Activity helps regulate sleep cycles, burn off nervous energy, and keep dogs mentally balanced during schedule changes. In other words, if your dog seems a little extra energetic or confused today, a good run or walk can work wonders.

And speaking of good runs…

Bend’s Dogs Have Something New to Look Forward To

Next Saturday, something exciting is happening for the first time in Bend. From 12 PM – 3 PM, the Old Mill District will host the very first “Second Saturday: Paws and Pints.”

Think of it like First Fridays’ art walk—but designed for dogs and their people.

Local businesses, pet lovers, and community partners will be celebrating Bend’s famously dog-friendly culture with activities, socializing, and plenty of reasons to bring your pup along for the afternoon.

We’ll be there with Bend Barks & Rec, sharing what we do and showing how our mobile dog gym helps keep dogs active year-round with safe, structured 30-minute runs—rain, snow, smoke, or sunshine.

If you’ve ever wondered how the slatmills work, or if your dog would enjoy a run, it’s a great chance to stop by, say hello, and see it in action.

For more information, please visit: https://allevents.in/bend/200029784376417?ref=sharer

A Good Routine Makes a Happy Dog

Whether it’s adjusting to a time change or navigating a busy week, dogs do best when they get consistent exercise and mental stimulation.

As we move into longer days and a busier spring season, remember one simple truth:

A tired dog is a happy dog… and usually a very well-behaved one, too.

So if your dog seems a little thrown off by the time change today, don’t worry—you’re not alone. A walk, a run, or even a little extra playtime can help reset their rhythm.

And if you’re out enjoying the sunshine next weekend, we hope to see you at Paws and Pints.

Your dog will probably think it was their idea. 🐾