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As pet owners, we often assume that our canine companions prefer to stay warm and dry indoors during rainy weather. However, have you ever noticed your dog’s eagerness to go outside and play in the rain? It may seem counterintuitive, but many dogs actually enjoy getting wet and muddy. In fact, there are several reasons why your pup may prefer to stay out in the rain. From their natural instincts as hunters to the sensory stimulation of raindrops on their fur, dogs have unique reasons for their love of rainy weather. So, keep reading as we explore some of the reasons why your dog can’t resist the call of the rain.
The 6 Reasons Why Dogs Like to Stay Out in the Rain
1. It’s In Their Genes
Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, but they still retain some of their wild instincts for the most part. One of these instincts is their love for water. Many wild canids, such as wolves and coyotes, are natural swimmers and enjoy playing in the rain. This behavior can be traced back to their ancestors (wolves), that would hunt for food in wet conditions. Rain can make it easier for prey to track, and the scent of animals can be more easily detected in humid air.
Aside from their natural instincts, dogs may also prefer rain for its cooling effects. Dogs don’t sweat like humans and can easily overheat in warm weather. Rain can provide a welcome relief from the heat, allowing your dog to stay cool and comfortable. Additionally, rain can reduce the amount of pollen and other allergens in the air, which can be beneficial for dogs with allergies.
2. It Provides Physical and Mental Stimulation
In addition to its cooling effects, rain can also provide several physical and mental benefits for dogs. For example, playing in the rain can improve your dog’s physical fitness. Running and jumping in the rain requires more energy than doing so on dry ground, which can improve your dog’s endurance and muscle tone.
Rain can also be a great mental stimulation for dogs. The sound of raindrops hitting the ground and the scent of rain can appeal to dogs with a keen sense of smell. Additionally, the sensation of raindrops on their fur can be a novel and exciting experience, providing mental stimulation and enrichment.
3. It Can Be a Sensory Experience for Dogs
For dogs, rain is a multi-sensory experience. The sound of raindrops hitting the ground, the scent of rain, and the sensation of raindrops on their fur can all be very appealing. Additionally, the sight of rain can be very stimulating.
As a pet owner, you can enhance your dog’s sensory experience of rain by providing them with toys and other objects to play with in the rain. For example, a ball or frisbee can be a great way to engage your dog in play while providing mental and physical stimulation.
4. They Simply Love the ” Fresh Rain” Smell
Canines have an incredible olfactory sense because they possess over 300 million scent receptors, compared to humans’ 5 to 6 million. As a result, the strength of a dog’s sense of smell is estimated to be anywhere from 50,000 more powerful than that of humans.
Rain, strong winds, and other physical objects can affect the strength and movement of a scent. After a rainstorm passes, your pup might want to stay outside to experience all the alterations in the air’s aromatic qualities.
5. The Dog Isn’t Feeling Well
Believe it or not, staying out in the rain may also be because of an injury or a medical issue, and your dog may feel more comfortable in cooler or wet weather. For example, if your dog is having issues with skin irritation they may want to spend time outdoors where they can roll around on the grass to soothe themselves until they feel up to returning indoors.
A dog suffering from gastrointestinal issues may also feel more comfortable being outside in cooler weather that’s more humid than the inside of your home. If you think a medical problem could be why your dog stayed out in the rain for so long, contact your vet for an examination.
6. Your Dog Breed May Have More Propensity Towards Water
Also, some dogs naturally take to water more than others. Some breeds are more likely to enjoy the outdoors than others, and some may fare better when exposed to wet weather. For example, several breeds, like the Newfoundland, are better suited for handling colder temperatures. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers have a top coat that is water resistant, so they won’t feel the wetness of the rain as much as dogs that have a single thin coat.
How to Prepare Your Dog for Rain
If you live in an area with frequent rain, preparing your dog for wet weather is essential. This includes investing in rain gear, such as a waterproof coat or boots, to keep your dog dry and comfortable. Additionally, you can train your dog to enjoy rain by providing positive reinforcement and rewards for good behavior in wet conditions.
When training your dog to enjoy rain, it’s vital to start slowly and gradually expose them to wet conditions. For example, you can start by taking your dog for short walks in light rain for about 5 to 10 minutes, gradually increasing the intensity and duration of the rain exposure over time.
Will Dogs Catch a Cold From Being Out in the Rain?
Despite the many benefits of rain for dogs, there are still several common misconceptions about dogs and wet weather. One of the most common misconceptions is that dogs can catch a cold from being out in the rain. Dogs can’t catch a cold from wet weather, but they can develop other health issues, such as hypothermia or pneumonia if they are not adequately protected from the rain.
The 6 Tips for Taking Care of Your Dog’s Hygiene in Rainy Weather
Rainy weather can be challenging for pet owners when caring for their dog’s hygiene. Many dogs love to play in the rain, but it can also make them vulnerable to skin infections, fungal growth, and other health issues. To ensure your dog stays healthy during rainy weather, here are a few tips you can follow to maintain good hygiene.
1. Pay Attention to Their Paws
Pay special attention to your dog’s paws during rainy weather. Wet and muddy paws can accumulate bacteria and fungi, which can cause skin infections. To prevent this, wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth after every walk or playtime in the rain. You can also trim the hair around their paws to prevent mud and debris from getting stuck between their toes.
2. Brush Their Coat Afterward
Don’t forget to maintain your dog’s grooming routine during rainy weather. Regular grooming removes dead skin cells and keeps your dog’s coat healthy and shiny. Brushing your dog’s coat after a rainy outing can also prevent matting, which can trap moisture and lead to skin problems.
3. Have Dry Shelter Spaces
Always ensure that your dog has access to shelter. If your dog spends most of their time outdoors, ensure that there is a covered area where they can stay dry. If your dog is primarily an indoor pet, make sure that they have a warm and dry place to sleep.
4. Keep Their “Doggie Area” Clean and Dry
Ensure their bedding is dry and clean after they come in from the rain to prevent bacterial or fungal issues. You can also use a pet-friendly disinfectant to sanitize their living area. You can consult your vet if you notice any signs of skin irritation or infection in your dog during rainy weather. They can prescribe medication or recommend a specific shampoo for your dog’s skin condition.
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5. Avoid the Puddles
Another important precaution is to keep your dog away from puddles and standing water. Puddles can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause infections and or illnesses. Additionally, standing water can be a drowning hazard for dogs, especially those that are not strong swimmers. Keep your dog on a leash during walks and avoid areas with large puddles or standing water.
6. Always, Always Dry Them Thoroughly
Drying your dog off after they have been outside in the rain is also important. Use a towel to dry their fur thoroughly, paying particular attention to their paws and ears. Wet fur can lead to a bad-smelling dog (and house), skin irritation, and damp ears can lead to ear infections. Keep your dog warm and dry as much as possible during rainy weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dogs sleep better when it’s raining?
There is no clear-cut answer to whether dogs sleep better when it’s raining. Some dogs may find the sound of rain and the cooler temperatures soothing and calming, leading to better sleep. On the other hand, some dogs may become anxious or restless during a storm, causing them to have disrupted sleep patterns. Each dog is different and has unique preferences when it comes to sleeping conditions.
It’s also worth considering the dog’s breed, age, and health status since they can all impact their sleep quality. For example, some dogs prefer a quiet and dark environment, while others enjoy having background noise or a source of light. However, if you notice signs of anxiety or restlessness, it may be best to create a more calm and comfortable sleeping environment for your furry friend.
Which dog breeds like water the most?
One of the most popular water-loving breeds is the Labrador Retriever. They are excellent swimmers and love retrieving objects from the water, making them popular for hunting and water sports. Other breeds that love the water include the Portuguese Water Dog, which was initially bred for fishing and has a waterproof coat that allows them to swim in cold water for long periods of time. The Newfoundland is another breed that loves to swim and is often used in water rescue operations. The Irish Water Spaniel enjoys water activities and has a unique curly coat that keeps them warm in cold water.
Can the rain worsen dog allergies?
Rain can actually have a positive effect on dog allergies. It washes away the pollen and other allergens that are in the air. However, if your pup is allergic to mold, the rain can make their allergies worse. Mold thrives in damp environments, and after a rainstorm, the moisture can create the perfect environment for mold growth. If your dog is allergic to mold, it’s essential to keep them away from areas in your home where mold and fungus commonly grow, such as damp or humid basements or areas with poor ventilation. Keeping your home dry and well-ventilated during rainy weather is also a good idea to prevent mold growth.
Conclusion
While rain may not be our favorite weather condition, it can be a positive and enriching experience for our furry friends. From their natural instincts as hunters to the sensory stimulation of raindrops on their fur, dogs have unique reasons for their love of rainy weather. But remember that keeping your dog clean and dry during rainy weather is crucial. After every walk or playtime in the rain, you should wipe down your dog with a towel to remove excess water and mud from their fur.
When possible, provide them with rain gear to help them stay warm and dry in cooler weather. This will help you prevent having a house that smells like a wet dog, and it can also prevent skin and ear issues that your dog may have from being overly damp for an extended period of time. So, if your dog loves playing in the rain, let them.
Featured Image Credit: Radha bhavikatti, Shutterstock
