[Veterinarian-supervised] This is the perfect solution! 3 tips for keeping your small dog warm in winter

This is the Petopop editorial department.

When the cold weather arrives, you may be worried, "Is my dog ​​cold?" Small dogs, especially those who are small and close to the ground, are more sensitive to the cold than we humans think. Shivering or curling up and not moving may be signs of the cold.

Winter in Japan can be a harsh environment for dogs, with cold floors and dry air caused by heating. Here, we'll introduce three specific cold weather protection measures to help your beloved dog get through the winter comfortably.

Point 1: Measures to prevent "hidden cold" in the room

You may think, "It's okay because I'm indoors," but the truth is, the danger of the cold lurks even indoors.

Prevents cold from the floor

Warm air tends to rise and cold air tends to accumulate at the bottom. This means that small dogs whose bodies are close to the ground are more affected by the cold from the floor (chills from the bottom) than their owners may feel. Particular care is needed if your dog spends a lot of time directly on the floor.

• Solution: Prepare a bed or blanket made of warm material. Fluffy fleece or boa fabric will be appreciated by your dog. It is best to place the bed near a window or door, avoiding areas where drafts can easily get in.

How to use a pet heater correctly

Pet heaters are convenient items, but if used incorrectly, they can cause low-temperature burns. It's important to set them up so that they only heat half of your dog's cage or playpen, so that your dog can move around and regulate its body temperature, and to always leave an escape route. Avoid using them for long periods of time, and check on them frequently.

Point 2: Enjoy your walk with full protection

Even in winter, walks are important times for dogs. However, suddenly going from a warm room to the cold outside can put a lot of strain on the body. Be sure to prepare well and enjoy your winter walks!

Choose functional dog clothing

For small dogs, winter dog clothing is no longer just for fashion. It's an essential item to protect them from the cold. When choosing, check the following points:

• Heat retention: We recommend items with fleece lining or designs that can be layered.
• Ease of movement: No matter how warm it is, if it's difficult for your dog to move, it can be stressful. Choose a stretchy material.
• Safety: Reflective material is a good idea for safety when walking at night.

If you're not sure what to dress your baby in, be sure to check out Petopop's items, which combine design and functionality. You're sure to find something you love.

Choosing the time and route for your walk

Whenever possible, try to go for a walk during the warmer hours of the day. Also, on windy or snowy days, it's important to take care not to push yourself too hard and stick to shorter walks.

Point 3: Measures to prevent dryness that are often overlooked

Dryness is an issue that is often overlooked when it comes to winter cold prevention. Heated indoor spaces are a harsh environment not only for humans but also for dogs' skin and fur. Dryness can cause dandruff and itching, lowering your dog's quality of life.

Control humidity with a humidifier

Use a humidifier in the room to maintain an appropriate humidity level (50% to 60%). This will also help maintain your dog's respiratory health.

Hydration and paw care

Keeping fresh water available at all times is a good idea, and adding a little hot water to dry food to help keep it hydrated is also effective. Cold, dry asphalt can cause cracks in the paws. After a walk, gently wipe away any dirt with lukewarm water and, if necessary, apply a moisturizing cream.

Summary: Don't miss your dog's signs and get through the winter!

This time, we introduced three points to keep small dogs warm in the cold: ( 1) indoor environment , ( 2) tips for walking, and ( 3) measures to prevent dryness . The most important thing is to observe your dog's condition carefully on a daily basis and notice even the smallest changes.

Petopop will continue to provide information and items that will help owners and their dogs have more fun and enjoyment this winter. We hope you make lots of wonderful memories this winter too!