How sled dogs and pets respond when the clocks change

The changing of the clocks can be a challenging time for many, not just for humans but also for animals. In Ontario, Canada, sled dogs are known for their strict daily routines, which are essential for their work. When the clocks went back an hour, researchers from the University of Toronto discovered that this time shift had a significant impact on the sled dogs. They found that these working dogs were active and moving around almost an hour earlier than they usually would after the clocks changed. In contrast, pet dogs of the same breeds did not show any noticeable effects; they remained comfortably asleep during that extra hour. This research highlights how closely working dogs adhere to their schedules. The study involved placing movement sensors on 25 sled dogs and 29 pet dogs to observe their behavior. The sled dogs were studied at the Haliburton Forest Wildlife Reserve, where they are trained to pull sleds. The researchers noted that the sled dogs were up and ready to go before their handlers arrived, demonstrating their strong connection to their daily routines. Lavania Nagendran, one of the lead researchers, expressed her surprise at the clear differences between the two groups of dogs. She had expected them to react similarly, but the sled dogs were evidently affected by the time change. This study is part of a broader investigation into the behavioral differences between wolves and domestic dogs. The researchers aim to understand whether wolves can also adjust their routines based on human influences, such as the changing of the clocks. They are exploring whether this ability to adapt is a natural trait in canines or if it was developed through domestication. The researchers also examined how the time change impacts humans. Previous studies have indicated that the shift can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fragmented sleep that may last for up to a week. Additionally, there is evidence of an increase in traffic accidents immediately following the time change. This study is the first of its kind to investigate the effects of clock changes on domestic dogs. The researchers hope their findings will provide valuable insights for dog owners regarding how their pets respond to changes in routine. They suggest that for working dogs, a gradual adjustment to a new schedule may be beneficial, as sudden changes can be unsettling. In contrast, pet dogs appear to adapt more easily to new routines without significant issues. Overall, this research indicates that sled dogs are particularly sensitive to their schedules, while pet dogs are more relaxed and capable of handling changes. The researchers are enthusiastic about their findings and plan to continue exploring how animals respond to environmental changes. They believe that understanding these differences can enhance the well-being of both working dogs and pets, ultimately leading to better care and management of these animals.