[Veterinarian Supervised] Don't Miss the Signs of Winter in Small Dogs! 3 Cold Weather Measures You Can Start Using Today

When the cold winter air arrives, it marks the beginning of a harsh season not only for us humans, but also for our beloved dogs , especially small breeds. You might be thinking, "My dog ​​is indoors, so it's fine," but in fact, small dogs, who are sensitive to the cold, can unknowingly get cold even indoors. Shivering or curling up and not moving may be signs that they're feeling the cold. Under the supervision of a veterinarian, Petopop will introduce three key tips for keeping small dogs warm in the cold that you can start putting into practice today.

1. Warmth starts from your feet! Create a "warm spot" in your room

Small dogs are closer to the ground than humans, so they feel the coldness of the flooring directly. Especially in the winter mornings and evenings, their body heat is easily lost due to the cold coming from the floor. While it is important to heat the entire room with an air conditioner, creating a "warm spot" just for your dog is an effective way to combat the cold .

Place a soft fleece blanket or thick mat in your dog's cage or bed. This will help keep out the cold air from the floor. If your dog has several favorite spots, we recommend placing a mat in each one. Petopop items have stylish designs that blend in with your interior, creating a comfortable space without ruining the atmosphere of the room.

2. 90% of winter walks are preparation! Careful planning of clothing and time

Many dogs love to go for walks even in the cold. However, the sudden temperature difference between inside and outside can put a lot of strain on the bodies of small dogs. When going for a walk in the winter, it's important to be prepared to keep your dog warm.

First, dress your dog in dog clothes that help maintain body temperature. We especially recommend designs that protect the stomach from the cold and that are made of windproof materials. Also, try to think about the time of day you take your dog for a walk. Simply choosing a time during the day when it's relatively warm (around 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM) can greatly reduce the burden of the cold on your dog. On very cold or snowy days, it's important to be flexible and make the decision to shorten the walk and play indoors without forcing your dog.

3. Dryness and hydration are often overlooked

Keeping your dog warm in winter isn't the only way to protect it from the cold . Air conditioners and heaters make indoor temperatures drier than you might imagine. Dry air can dry out your dog's skin, just like it does for humans, which can lead to dandruff and itching.

Use a humidifier to maintain an appropriate humidity level (40-60% is a good guideline). Also, heated rooms make your pet thirsty more easily. Be sure to change their water frequently so they always have fresh water to drink. When their body warms up, their metabolism increases, so staying hydrated is very important, even in winter. Mixing a little wet food into their meals is also a good way to encourage them to naturally consume more water.

With a little ingenuity, you can give your beloved dog a comfortable winter while he fights the cold with his little body. Petopop will continue to provide you with information and items that will make your daily life with your dog more fun and fulfilling.