Do German Shepherds like rain? This is a question that many dog owners have asked themselves at one time or another. After all, no one likes to get wet in the rain, and it’s natural to assume our four-legged friends don’t, either! However, the truth is that whether or not your German Shepherd enjoys the rain depends on several factors.
In this blog post, we will explore why some German Shepherds love playing in the rain while others prefer to stay inside when the skies open up. We'll also look at how you can tell if your pup loves getting wet and what activities you can do with them during rainy days.
Finally, we'll discuss how best to keep your pup safe and healthy even when they are out enjoying a spring shower. So grab an umbrella, and let's understand what makes German Shepherds tick when it comes to their relationship with rainy days!
So, do German Shepherds like rain?
While some German Shepherds enjoy playing in the rain and find it refreshing, others prefer staying inside and avoiding the wet weather. It all depends on individual preferences and personalities.
German Shepherds are like any other breed when it comes to playing and splashing in puddles. Some may find it exciting, while others may be more tentative or hesitant. If your pup loves getting wet, you will likely notice them jumping around and barking excitedly when the rain starts pouring down.
If they aren't too keen on getting wet, they will avoid the rain by staying indoors or cowering away when it's time to go outside. Some German Shepherds may even exhibit anxiety when a storm is in the forecast.
So now you may wonder, "okay, how can I know that my German Shepherd loves rain?".
We appreciate that you asked this because we have prepared for you a list of signs that your GSD loves rain!
Signs that your German Shepherd loves rain
Some German Shepherds adore the rain! Dogs frequently display actions and indicators that indicate they enjoy the rain and desire to go outside when it's rainy. Some things to watch out for include the following:
1. Barking excitedly when it starts to rain: If your German Shepherd barks in anticipation when the rain begins, it signals that they love playing outside in wet weather.
2. Jumping around and splashing in puddles: If your GSD loves to jump, run, and splash around in the rain, it's a sure sign that they enjoy playing outdoors in the wet weather.
3. Looking up at the sky as if asking for more: If your German Shepherd lifts their head towards the sky and looks as if they are begging for more rain, it's another
4. Staying outside for a prolonged period despite the rain: If your fur friend hesitates to come inside when the rain starts pouring, it's a sign that they have too much fun playing in the wet weather.
5. Enjoying being wet and moving around enthusiastically: If your dog loves being wet and enjoys moving around in the rain, it's a sure sign that they love rainy days.
6. Not exhibiting any signs of anxiety when a storm is forecasted: If your GSD is not exhibiting any signs of anxiety when it is forecasted, it's likely they enjoy playing in the rain.
7. Being eager to go out again as soon as the rain stops: If your GSD is eager to go out again as soon as the rain stops, it's a sure sign that they love playing outdoors in wet weather.
Those are obvious signs that your German Shepherd is a huge fan of rain! But what are the signs of a German Shepherd that hate rainy days?
Signs that your German Shepherd hates rain
Unfortunately, not all German Shepherds like the rain equally. If your GSD doesn't like the rain, he will show one or multiple signs, such as:
1. Refusing to go out when it's raining: If your pup refuses to go out or run around when it's raining, it may be a sign that they don't like the wet weather.
2. Cowering away and hiding in a corner: If your GSD is cowering away and hiding in a corner when there is rain, it's likely that they are not comfortable with the wet weather.
3. Displaying signs of anxiety when a storm is forecasted: If your pup starts exhibiting signs of anxiety when a storm is forecasted, such as pacing or excessive barking, they will likely not enjoy rainy days.
According to the case study, over 30% of dogs fear thunderstorms!
4. Not wanting to be touched when it's raining: If your pup doesn't want to be touched when it's raining, they likely don't enjoy the wet weather.
5. Cowering away from the rain and trying to get inside quickly: If your GSD cowers away from the rain and tries to get inside quickly, it's a sign that they do not like the wet weather.
6. Not getting excited when it starts raining: If your German Shepherd doesn't get excited when it starts raining, it's a sure sign that they don't like being outdoors in wet weather.
7. Displaying signs of depression and sleeping excessively: If your GSD displays signs of depression and sleeps excessively during rainy days, it suggests that they are not particularly fond of rain.
8. Barking in distress rather than excitement: If your GSD barks in distress rather than excitement when the rain starts pouring, it's a sign they don't enjoy wet weather.
9. Refusing to move around or play outside despite the rain: If your fur friend refuses to move around or play outside despite the rain, it's a sign that they don't enjoy rainy days.
10. Your German Shepherd keeps his ears down all the time: If you and your German shepherd get caught in the rain while you're outside, and he keeps his ears down all the time, that's one of the signs that the rain doesn't please him.
Do German Shepherds get cold in the rain?
Yes, German Shepherds can get cold in the rain if the outside temperature is near 32°F / 0°C. Although German Shepherds are bred for their thick and heavy coats, they don't enjoy the chill of a rainy day. If your GSD is shivering when it's raining, take them inside and wrap them up in a warm blanket.
If the outside temperature is near 32°F / 0°C and it's rainy and windy, your German Shepherd probably will not enjoy that rain.
In these weather conditions, you shouldn't let your German Shepherd spend too much time outside since he gets cold easily within 10-15 minutes.
On the other hand, if it's a rainy summer day, and your German Shepherd loves the rain, you should try playing and enjoying it together!
Can you leave German Shepherd in the rain?
No, it is strongly recommended not to leave your German Shepherd in the rain, especially if they show discomfort. If you must leave them out in the rain, ensure they have a warm and dry shelter, such as a doghouse with a waterproof roof or an enclosed porch. The best solution is to keep them inside the house during the rain.
Your German Shepherd should be outside during the rain only with you while you are walking or playing.
Leaving your German Shepherd alone in the rain can have negative side effects, such as hypothermia, pneumonia, or other serious health issues.
Does rain affect German Shepherds' moods?
Yes, rain does affect the moods of German Shepherds. If they love the rain, they will be more eager to go outside and play in the wet weather. However, if they don't like it, they may become anxious and depressed.
Pay attention to how your pup reacts when it rains to determine whether he likes or dislikes it. German Shepherds can, like humans, react positively or negatively to seasonal changes, including thunderstorms, heatwaves, dark skies, wind, and heavy rain can all affect your dog's behavior.
Understanding your pup's behavior will help you be better prepared to keep them safe and comfortable during weather conditions. Whether they love or hate rainy days, provide them a warm and secure place to relax and feel safe.
Should I walk my German Shepherd in the rain?
Whether or not you should walk your German Shepherd in the rain depends on whether they like it. If they love playing and walking in the rain, then by all means, do so as long as it is safe. However, if they don't enjoy being outdoors in wet weather, avoid taking them out until the rain stops.
If the rain is too heavy and your pup doesn't like it, keep them indoors to ensure they are safe and comfortable. No matter how much your German Shepherd loves the rain, going outside during a big thunderstorm isn't a good idea.
Instead of walking in the rain, take indoor activities such as playing fetch or hide-and-seek inside your home to entertain them.
What activities can I do on rainy days with my German Shepherd?
On rainy days, you can do plenty of indoor activities with your German Shepherd. Try playing brain-stimulating puzzle games such as hide-and-seek or treat-finding games that will keep them entertained for hours! You can also use food as a reward to teach basic commands such as sit and stay.
If your pup loves being outdoors, you can play fetch outside, tug of war, or chase! If the rain isn't too heavy, you can also go for a short walk or jogging session.
Remember that even when it's raining, your German Shepherd needs exercise and mental stimulation. Spend quality time with them by playing fun indoor games or snuggling on the couch.
Should I dry my German Shepherd after rain?
Drying your German Shepherd after a walk in the rain is important to prevent health issues such as skin diseases or irritation. If possible, towel-dry them immediately after entering and use a hairdryer to dry their fur completely.
This will help avoid any moisture buildup and protect their skin from infections caused by bacteria or fungi.
But if you can, try to avoid a hairdryer since the best way to dry a dog's fur is to leave it dry naturally.
Can German Shepherds get sick after being in the rain?
Yes, German Shepherds can get sick after being in the rain. Rainwater may contain parasites or pathogens that could harm your pup's health. Your pup can become ill if they come into contact with contaminated rainwater and lick its fur or paws.
These contaminants can cause various illnesses ranging from skin infections to more serious issues such as leptospirosis, a bacterial illness that can be fatal if left untreated.
Dry them off properly to prevent your pup from getting sick after going outside in the rain. You should also check their fur and paws for any signs of infection or irritation and consult your vet if necessary.
If your German Shepherd gets rainwater poisoned, he will show symptoms such as:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
If your dog is experiencing rainwater poisoning, it's important to take them to the vet immediately. The veterinarian will likely run a series of tests to determine the cause of the illness. Treatment of rainwater poisoning depends on the underlying condition causing it.
Why does my German Shepherd sit in the rain?
There could be several reasons why your German Shepherd might choose to sit in the rain. One possibility is that the pup loves being outdoors and enjoys the feeling of the cool rain on its fur. Another possible reason could be that they seek relief from a hot day, as a cool down through rain can help them regulate their body temperature.
Your pup may also enjoy the sound of rain or be curious about it. Whatever the reason, ensuring your pup doesn't sit out in the rain for too long and is kept safe and comfortable during wet weather conditions is important.
If you notice that your German Shepherd enjoys the rain soo much, let him play outside during the rainy day, and feel free to join him! Playing with your GSD during the rain can be so much fun!
Why does my German Shepherd sniff more when it rains?
Your German Shepherd may sniff more when it rains because the humidity in the air increases, making scents easier to detect. This is why you may notice your pup taking deeper and more frequent sniffs as soon as it starts raining.
During a rainstorm, scents from nearby animals or plants become stronger and linger longer, making them easier to detect. This is why your dog may be more interested in sniffing when it's raining - they are trying to take advantage of the increased scent potential!
As long as your German Shepherd isn't in danger while sniffing around during a rainstorm, you can sit back and enjoy their curiosity!
Final words
German Shepherds are a fun and loyal dog breed with many unique characteristics, each with a unique personality.
Most German Shepherds don't like the rain, and that's fine. If your dog doesn't enjoy the rain, you shouldn't force him to go outside or, even worse, keep him outside.
On the other hand, if your German Shepherd loves the rain, feel free to allow him to play outside when it's safe! Also, if you're crazy enough like your German Shepherd, feel free to join him and enjoy together in muddy games!
Frequently asked questions
Do you still have questions? Check our FAQ section, and you can find your answer here!
❓How often should you wash your German Shepherd?
You should wash your German Shepherd every 3-4 months with a shampoo specifically designed for dogs. Regular baths help keep their skin and coat healthy.
Suggestion: How often should you bathe a German Shepherd
❓Do German Shepherds like snow?
Many German Shepherds love playing in the snow and enjoying the cold weather. They have thick fur that helps keep them warm while they play outdoors.
Suggestion: Does German Shepherd Get Cold? (Cold Myths Busted)
❓Do German Shepherds like water?
Yes, German Shepherds typically enjoy swimming and playing in the water. Some may even naturally seek water sources to cool down during hot days. Generally speaking, German Shepherds like being around water as much as they can get away with it.
They are natural swimmers and often enjoy fetching sticks or balls in the water - make sure you don't throw them too deep! If your pup is not used to the water, start at a shallow depth and gradually increase it as they become comfortable.
Suggestion: Can German Shepherds Swim?
❓Do German Shepherds like hot weather?
German Shepherds do not typically enjoy hot weather. They have thick fur coats and can easily overheat if they stay in the sun for too long. Be sure to provide your pup with plenty of shade, water, and breaks from the heat outside during summer days.
Suggestion: How to keep your German Shepherd cool?
