A dog at the door, looking sadly at the rain pouring from the sky, tucks its tail and refuses to go out. Familiar scene? Many owners are sure: dogs hate the rain. Others swear that their pets are happy to run through puddles for hours. Who is right? The answer, as always, is in the details. In this article, we will discuss why some dogs love bad weather, others tolerate it, and still others are terrified. And most importantly, how to make a walk in the rain comfortable for everyone.

Reasons for disliking the rain: from physiology to psychology

Most dogs are indeed not fond of the rain. And there are valid reasons for this. Firstly, it's uncomfortable for them to get wet. Domestic dogs, especially those with thick undercoats (labradors, huskies), do not get wet as quickly, but their fluffy coat becomes heavy and unpleasant. Short-haired dogs (dobermans, terriers) freeze almost immediately because their fur does not repel water well. Secondly, dogs have a very sensitive hearing. The sound of the rain, especially large drops on asphalt or metal roofs, can be deafening for them. Thirdly, during the rain, the world smells differently: smells are washed away, and the dog loses its familiar "navigation". Instinct tells them: it's better to stay in a shelter during a storm.

Breeds that love water and mud

Not all dogs are equal when it comes to water. There are breeds bred to work in water and wet conditions. Newfoundlands, Portuguese water dogs, Spanish water dogs are simply happy when there is a puddle to lie in. Retrievers (labradors, golden retrievers) also love water, although they may be capricious if the rain is too cold. Spaniels, hunters of waterfowl, love the dampness. Even some terriers, such as wirehaired terriers, do not mind running in the rain. Their fur dries faster thanks to their hard coat. If your dog is in this category, you have probably already seen how they joyfully jump into every puddle.

How to tell if a dog dislikes the rain

Signs of discomfort can vary. A dog may refuse to leave the elevator. Some may shiver (even if it's not cold outside). Others try to run under overhangs, under eaves, cling to walls. They quickly do their business and run back to the door. Adult dogs sometimes start to tolerate and make puddles at home just to avoid the downpour. If you see such behavior, do not force them and pull them by the leash. This will only worsen the fear.

How to accustom a dog to walks in the rain

If your dog is completely against going out, you can try a gentle desensitization. Start by simply opening the door to the elevator and standing on the porch for 2-3 minutes, praising and giving treats. Gradually increase the time. Play fetch under an overhang where it's not raining. Show that rain is not the end of the world, just the weather. Never force a dog to go out, do not pull on the leash. Use special dog raincoats: they not only keep warm but also create a barrier from unpleasant sensations on the fur. For short-haired breeds, this is a lifesaver.

Safety and comfort measures

A walk in the rain requires special attention. Wash your dog's paws with a special shampoo or just warm water (road de-icers can eat away at paw pads). Regularly check for cuts on the paws from glass hidden in puddles. After the walk, dry the dog with a towel or a hair dryer (on a warm setting). Do not let a wet dog lie in drafts — you risk pneumonia. For short-haired breeds, use a warm blanket in cold rain. Do not walk for more than 15 minutes during a heavy downpour — this is stressful.

Do puppies like the rain

Puppies, like children, are often more curious and less cautious. The first rain in their lives is a wonderful phenomenon: drops, puddles, strange sounds. Many puppies happily stick their noses into puddles, trying to catch drops with their mouths. This is not love for the rain, but exploration. The owner's task is not to scare but also not to let them freeze. If a puppy shivers, end the walk. Do not scold for getting wet. Over time, if the fear is not reinforced, a puppy can grow into a dog that is neutral towards the rain.

Why some dogs become aggressive during the rain

You have probably seen videos where a dog runs across the lawn during a downpour, catches water in its mouth, catches drops. This is not mischief, but joy. The reasons can be different: excess energy that was not burned off during the rain, and the dog is simply "letting off steam". Or the dog likes the feeling of coolness (for active breeds with thick fur that overheat). Sometimes it's related to low atmospheric pressure — weather-sensitive animals become excited. Such behavior is normal if the dog does not harm itself (does not run across the road).

Alternatives to a walk in a heavy downpour

Sometimes the weather is so terrible that it is dangerous to go out (thunderstorms with lightning, hurricanes, freezing rain). In such cases, use home alternatives: running up and down stairs (in the elevator if allowed), playing ball in the corridor, training tricks, scent mats. For small dogs, you can train them to use a blanket or a litter box on the balcony. But remember: this is a temporary measure. Do not replace full-fledged walks with this always. Otherwise, the dog will learn to tolerate it and will demand to go to the toilet at home.

Therefore, the answer to the question "do dogs like to go for walks in the rain?" depends on the specific dog, its breed, upbringing, and even the weather outside. Respect your pet's preferences, but do not indulge in caprices. Most importantly, be prepared for any surprises, because your dog lives here and now, and for her, the rain can become the most exciting adventure of the day.

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