Does Your Dog Do This Too?
When it's time for a walk, your dog gets excited and rushes to the door, eagerly waiting to go outside. But the moment you open the door and they see it's raining, they instantly turn into a "refusal dog" — stubbornly refusing to take a single step outside. No matter how much you try to pull them along, they simply won't budge.
Seeing this, you might wonder: "Could it be that dogs don't like rainy days either?"
There are three main reasons why dogs may not want to walk in the rain. Let's explore the root causes together and find solutions!
1. Why Dogs Dislike Getting Wet in the Rain
One of the most common reasons dogs avoid walks on rainy days is that they dislike the feeling of being wet. Historically, dogs lived in the wild without conveniences like hair dryers, so getting soaked by rain meant they would take a long time to dry completely. This prolonged wetness could cause their body temperature to drop, sometimes dangerously, which naturally made them averse to hunting or being active in the rain.
If your dog usually dislikes baths or water contact, it is likely they will also resist going outside during rain. To encourage your dog to be more willing to go out on rainy days, you might try dressing them in a full-coverage raincoat. This can help keep them dry and comfortable, potentially increasing their willingness to venture outdoors despite the weather.
2. Helping Dogs Adjust to Rain Gear
Many dog owners put raincoats and rain boots on their dogs to keep them dry during wet weather. However, if dogs have not undergone proper desensitization training for rain gear, they may find it uncomfortable or unfamiliar. This can cause them to struggle with walking or even resist going for walks altogether.
It is recommended to first introduce rain gear through positive desensitization, allowing dogs to get used to wearing it gradually without force. Forcing raincoats or boots on a dog can lead to stress, resistance, or even injury from struggling. Additionally, choosing times when the rain is lighter can make walks more pleasant for both dogs and owners.
Positive, step-by-step training involves letting the dog explore the raincoat or boots at their own pace, rewarding calm behavior with treats and praise. Gradually increasing the time the gear is worn and ensuring a comfortable fit helps the dog accept the rain gear as a normal part of their routine. This approach ensures that dogs remain comfortable and willing to go outdoors, even in rainy weather.
3. Why Some Dogs Fear Their Owner's Umbrella
Some dogs are reluctant to go for walks in the rain, not just because of the wet weather, but because they dislike the umbrella their owner holds. This is especially true for automatic umbrellas, which make a loud "pop" sound when opened. Many dogs find this noise very frightening.
When faced with this situation, owners can try wearing raincoats instead of using umbrellas. This simple change often helps dogs feel more comfortable and prevents them from being scared by the umbrella.
How to Care for Your Dog on Rainy Days
If your dog truly doesn't want to go for a walk in the rain, don't force them outside. Instead, you can help them burn off energy indoors by playing with toys and engaging in interactive games. This is a great alternative to outdoor walks when the weather is unpleasant.
For dogs that still need to go outside to relieve themselves, consider starting indoor potty training. Even older dogs can relearn this habit. This way, when your dog becomes elderly or unwell and can no longer go outside, they will still be comfortable using the bathroom indoors. This approach can save you from worrying about rainy days and your dog's needs.
