[2024 Edition] Supervised by a veterinarian! Three things you really need to know about keeping your small dog warm in the cold

It's suddenly gotten cold, and you're worried your child might be shivering?
Small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Miniature Dachshunds feel the cold in winter more than we humans do because of their small size and close proximity to the ground. Drafts from hardwood floors and windows are particularly bad for small family members.

But don't worry! With a little ingenuity, you can help your beloved dog stay warm and comfortable this winter. In this article, we'll introduce three tips carefully selected by the Petopop editorial team that you can start using right now to keep your small dog warm during the cold season .

Strategy 1: Create a "cozy safe zone" in your room 🛋️

You might think it's okay because the heater is on, but in fact, warm air tends to rise and cold air tends to sink to the bottom. This means that dogs who spend time close to the floor are often in a colder environment than their owners feel.

So, it's important to create a "warm and safe space" just for your dog. Check out the following points.

• Prepare a bed or blanket made of warm material: Fleece or boa fabrics are great for keeping your dog warm, making them perfect for curling up and sleeping. Dome-shaped beds are also recommended as they trap heat and provide a sense of security.
• Relocate your bed: Places near windows and doors are prone to letting in cold air. Try moving your bed closer to the center of the room, away from drafts.
• Shuts out cold air from the floor: Instead of placing your bed directly on the floor, simply laying a rug or mat underneath will significantly reduce the cold coming from the floor.

Your dog will feel safe and relaxed with their own warm hideaway.

Countermeasure 2: Enjoy winter walks wisely by wearing warm clothing ❄️

Does your dog ever refuse to go for walks because it's too cold? Lack of exercise in winter can lead to stress and obesity. However, you should never force your dog to go for walks.

When going for a walk in winter, be smart and enjoy it by being mindful of your time and clothing.

• Choose a warm time of day: It's best to avoid the cold early morning and evening hours and take your dog for a walk during the warmer hours of the day when the sun is out.
• Dress them in functional and stylish clothing: For small dogs, winter clothing is no longer just about fashion. It plays an important role in protecting their body from the cold wind and the cold ground, and preventing their body temperature from dropping. You want to choose clothing that is not only stylish but also functional, such as fleece-lined tops and windproof outerwear. Petopop's warm and easy-to-move-in items are perfect for winter walks.
• Adjust the length of your walk: Adjust the length of your walk depending on how your dog is doing, such as shortening the walk time a little more than usual.

If you keep your dog protected with warm clothing, he'll love winter walks.

Solution 3: Often overlooked "measures against dryness" and "hydration" 💧

One thing to be careful of indoors in winter is the dryness caused by heating. Just like humans, dry air can cause your dog's skin to become dry, which can lead to dandruff and itching. It can also cause static electricity, which can make your dog reluctant to be brushed.

Furthermore, in winter, dogs tend to drink less water because they are less likely to feel thirsty. Lack of water can affect their health, so it's important to take proper measures.

• Control humidity with a humidifier: It is ideal to keep the humidity level in the room at around 50-60%. Make good use of a humidifier.
• Always have fresh water available: For pets that don't drink much water, it can be effective to provide lukewarm water or add a little moisture to their food.
• Brushing improves circulation: Gentle brushing improves blood circulation to the skin, helping to maintain healthy skin and coat.

It is important to keep your body hydrated both inside and outside.

Summary: Enjoy the best winter with your dog with these little tricks

Here are three ways to keep small dogs warm in the cold.

1. Indoor environment: Provide a warm bed to prevent exposure to cold from the floor.
2. Walks: Dress your dog warmly and enjoy them during the day.
3. Health care: Be careful of dryness and lack of moisture.

These are all simple things you can start doing right now. Your beloved dog, a precious member of your family, can survive the cold and stay full of energy throughout the winter. A little consideration on your part will lead to your dog's health and happiness.

Petopop will continue to provide information and items that will make the daily lives of both pet dogs and their owners more fun and comfortable.