I am not convinced that dogs can display Seasonal Affective Disorder. While dogs are affected by seasonal changes, meaning changes in duration of light and day, I have never seen a dog affected like humans and I have never read a study confirming that dogs have SAD.
Instead, I believe dogs mirror the mood states of their owners, and some owners see what they want to see. I also have considerable experience in changing how dogs feel, and light therapy has not been on the menu yet! Contrast this with more studies that are being done regarding red light therapy for inflammation and immune responses.
I was interviewed for my opinion on this topic. I have written before about Photoperiodism so I was ready for this. Prior to answering, I consulted the many textbooks in my library on this topic just to make sure I wasn’t missing anything. While anything is possible, that doesn’t meant everything is probable. Where is the evidence? I can’t find a reliable study.
Furthermore, I lived in Seattle most of my life and worked with many dogs throughout the seasons. While I did meet people who felt the effects of being in the dark days there (it rains 9 months of the year), I never saw a dog that was SAD.
Here is the article at Apartment Guide showing varying opinions, including mine: Can Dogs Get Seasonal Depression? Yes: Here’s How to Care for Them.
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