It is common to observe dogs that are particularly excited and energetic during windy days, a very mysterious behavior. So why do our four-legged friends react so keenly to a simple change in the weather? How do you take advantage of that energy for even more fun walks and games?
Dogs have a highly developed sense of smell, much more powerful than that of humans. When it's windy, scents are carried over greater distances, which means your dog is exposed to a multitude of new and interesting scents. This increased olfactory stimulation can make your dog more alert and excited as he seeks to explore and identify the different scents around him.
Wind can also amplify certain sounds or create new ones., like the rustling of leaves or the snapping of branches. Dogs, which have very sensitive hearing, can respond to these unusual sounds by becoming more curious. They may also be more prone to barking or responding to surrounding noises because they are more aware of their surroundings.
Wind can also cause a tactile sensation for your dog, blowing on his coat and waving his ears. This feeling can be pleasant and stimulating for your dog, which can contribute to their overall excitement. Some dogs may also enjoy the feeling of running against the wind, which may encourage them to be more active and energetic during windy walks.
Dogs are instinctive animals, and some wind-related behaviors may be the result of ancestral instincts. For example, sheepdogs may be more alert and responsive when it is windy, as this can affect the behavior of the herd they keep.
If your dog is particularly excited when it's windy, take advantage of that energy to share even more intense moments of play and exercise. Ball games can be even more fun when the wind adds an unpredictable dimension to the trajectory of thrown objects.
You can also use this excitement by encouraging him to explore new environments and become familiar with different stimuli.