How Social Distancing Regulations Affect Your Dog in 2025

The UK’s social distancing rules introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic had a profound impact not only on people but also on our dogs’ daily lives and wellbeing. Even as restrictions have eased, many dogs still feel the effects of altered routines, limited socialisation, and changes in exercise habits. Understanding these impacts is crucial for responsible dog ownership in 2025.

1. Limited Walks and Exercise Changes

During lockdowns, many dog owners were limited to one walk per day, reducing the variety and length of exercise dogs were used to. Some dogs with multiple family members may get more walks, but overall, dogs faced less outdoor time and stimulation than usual. Limited exercise can lead to boredom, weight gain, and behavioural problems in active breeds or working dogs.

2. Reduced Social Interactions with Other Dogs

Social distancing meant fewer dogs in parks and public spaces, restricting dogs’ natural desire to interact with others. Puppies raised during the pandemic missed critical socialisation windows, leading to increased fearfulness or reactivity in some dogs as they encounter other dogs less confidently. Owners need to prioritise safe, gradual introductions today.

3. Stranger Interactions Become Confusing

People avoiding contact and giving dogs a wide berth can confuse dogs used to friendly greetings. When familiar faces suddenly keep their distance, your dog may feel uncertain or anxious. Recognition of this social shift helps owners interpret and reassure their dogs appropriately.

4. Disrupted and Elastic Routines

Changes to owner schedules and working from home mean dogs experience altered feeding times, play sessions, and rest periods, which can be unsettling for creatures of habit. Additionally, relaxed rules around behaviours during lockdown, such as sofa privileges or treat overfeeding, may undermine training consistency.

5. Children and Dogs: An Intensified Dynamic

Being confined together, children and dogs entertain each other more, which can be positive but also challenging. Children’s energy and potential teasing may stress dogs. Close supervision and respectful boundaries ensure their interactions remain safe and enriching.

6. Owner Stress and Mood Affect Dogs

Stress and irritability among owners during prolonged restrictions influence dogs’ emotional states. Dogs often mirror their owner's feelings, so fostering calmness and patience helps protect canine wellbeing.

7. Lethargy and Boredom Take Hold

Reduced motivation and opportunities for activity can cause both owners and dogs to become lethargic, intensifying boredom in dogs. Providing mental stimulation such as puzzle toys, training, and varied environmental experiences helps combat lethargy.

8. How to Support Your Dog Through These Changes

Experts recommend gradual re-socialisation to rebuild your dog's confidence in new environments and with different dogs and people. Consider calming aids such as pheromone diffusers, maintain consistent routines, keep training sessions positive and regular, and seek professional advice if behavioural challenges arise. Resilient adjustment hinges on patience and acknowledging each dog’s unique needs.

Responsible dog ownership in 2025 involves understanding the long-term effects social distancing has had on dogs and acting proactively to support their adaptation and emotional health. Offering enriched environments, careful socialisation, and steady routines will help your dog thrive in today’s changing world.