As the days grow longer and spring begins to bloom, it’s the paw-fect time to refresh your dog’s routine with a few seasonal tweaks. Simple, small changes can support their health and well-being and help you transition smoothly into the warmer days ahead.
We love spring! Brighter days mean more outdoor adventures (hello, park zoomies!), but they can also bring pesky spring challenges like allergies, fleas, and ticks.
Discover our top tips to help your pup feel their best this spring:
1. Re-fresh Their Bowl
Forget January, spring is the real season of fresh starts. Now is the chance to refocus on a fresh, balanced, species-appropriate diet that supports your pup’s nutritional needs.
Go for high-quality protein and fresh ingredients. Try adding seasonal spring superfoods to your dog’s bowl and rotate lighter proteins such as chicken, turkey, or salmon.
Want to make the switch to raw feeding? Check out our getting started page.
2. Keep Energy Levels Balanced
Warmer weather and longer days often mean more activity and outdoor exercise for your pup. Whether it’s park runs, hiking trails, or extra garden playtime, your dog may burn more calories and need additional nutritional support.
Spring is also a great time to check whether your dog’s weight has changed over the winter months. A balanced raw diet can help support muscle care, healthy digestion, and sustained energy for all those sunny walks.
Signs you may need to adjust food portions include:
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Low stamina on walks
- Increased hunger
3. Support Skin and Coat During Shedding Season
Spring shedding is no joke. Many dogs lose their winter coats as temperatures rise, which can leave fur everywhere and make their skin feel sensitive.
Regular grooming helps keep your dog comfortable and tangle-free, and prevents matting. It’s also a great time for a professional grooming session to trim nails, clean ears, and refresh their coat.
Nutrition can also support skin and coat health. Foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin E, and zinc can help. Dog-friendly fish such as salmon and sardines, protein-rich turkey, and nourishing chia or flax seeds are great options.
4. Don’t Forget Hydration
Warmer weather means hydration is even more important. Make sure your pup always has access to fresh, clean water, serve moisture-rich foods, and bring water along on longer walks.
Good hydration supports digestion, temperature regulation, and overall health. If you’ve recently switched to a raw diet, you may notice your dog drinking less. Don’t worry, this is normal, as raw food naturally contains more moisture than dry kibble.
5. Recognise Allergy Symptoms
Spring is when many dogs experience seasonal allergies. Supporting your dog’s immune system early may help before peak allergy season takes hold. Helpful additions like omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and quercetin can be a real game-changer.
Allergies can strike thanks to pollen, grass, and other environmental factors. Watch for signs like excessive licking or scratching, especially on the paws, legs, ears, or face, and consult your veterinarian if symptoms appear.
For more tips on tackling allergies, check out our blog with advice from our Certified Canine Nutritionist, Katie Coach.
6. Flea and Tick Prevention
Spring is the prime time to check that your dog’s flea and tick prevention is up to date before temperatures rise. If your pup will be spending more time outdoors, double-check vaccinations are up to date, too. Always consult your veterinarian about the best preventive treatments for your pet.
7. Don’t Forget Your Home
Before your dog makes a mad dash for the spring sunshine, check that your yard is secure and free from hazards. It’s also an ideal moment to spruce up your pet's space at home. Organise supplies and spring-clean beds, blankets, toys, and bowls using pet-safe cleaning products to keep everything safe and fresh.
8. Book a Health and Wellness Check-up
Spring is a great time to schedule a health check-up for your pup. Your vet can ensure they’re up to date on vaccinations and preventive medications such as heartworm and flea protection.
Some diseases, including Lyme disease, become more common in spring, so it’s a good time to chat through any concerns with your veterinarian.
Brighter Days Ahead
Getting your dog ready for spring is all about keeping them healthy, happy, and adventure-ready. With balanced, raw nutrition, extra grooming, and a little proactive care, your pup will be all set to leap paws-first into brighter days and tail-wagging fun this season.
For more information or advice, contact woof@topdogfoodandsupply.com / 203-345-0350.
