[Veterinarian-supervised] Cold weather protection for small dogs! 3 essential points to remember when your dog is sensitive to the cold

Both people and dogs instinctively curl up in the cold winter air. Winter in Japan can be particularly harsh for small dogs. Is your beloved dog showing signs that it's cold?

"My dog ​​has been shivering a lot lately..." "He doesn't want to go for walks, is he cold?" To help alleviate the worries of such pet owners, the Petopop editorial team, under the supervision of a veterinarian, will provide a thorough explanation of cold weather protection measures for small dogs!

Read on to find out three practical tips you can start using today to keep your dog warm and stylish this winter!

First of all, why are small dogs so susceptible to the cold?

Small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Italian Greyhounds tend to be more susceptible to the cold than larger dogs. There are three main reasons for this.

• Body heat escapes easily: Because the body has a large surface area relative to its weight, heat generated inside the body escapes easily.
• Cold air from the ground: Because your body is small, you are closer to the ground and are directly exposed to the cold from the asphalt and flooring.
• Low fat and muscle mass: One reason is that many dog ​​breeds have little fat or muscle to keep their bodies warm.

The first step in taking measures is to notice the signs of cold that your dog is showing.

Don't miss your dog's "It's cold" signs!

Dogs can't speak, so they send signs with their bodies. If you notice any of these behaviors, they may be feeling cold.

• Trembling
• Sleeping with the body curled up
• Always clinging to their owner or a warm place
• Doesn't want to go for walks and wants to go home right away
• Drink less water

Senior dogs and puppies in particular require extra care as their body temperature regulation functions are immature.

Start today! 3 tips for keeping your small dog warm in the cold

Now, let's take a look at some specific measures. We'll introduce them in three different situations: at home, on walks, and when you're left alone.

Point 1: Update your room environment to make it more comfortable

The room where your dog spends most of its time may actually have some colder spots than you think.

The most important thing is to prevent the bed from getting cold from the floor (chills from the bottom) . Instead of placing the bed directly on the floor, place it on a thick mat or rug. We recommend a fluffy, dome-shaped bed that wraps around your body, or one made of a material with good heat retention.

Also, keep your dog's bed away from windows, as drafts can make it cold. Air conditioning can also dry out the air. For your dog's skin and respiratory system, keep the humidity at 40% to 60% with a humidifier to keep it more comfortable.

Point 2: The golden rule for winter walks is to keep them warm and short

Even in the cold, walking is an important daily routine. However, don't overdo it. Warm and functional dog clothes are essential for winter walks.

We especially recommend designs that protect the stomach from the cold and high-necked types that keep the neck warm. On days when you feel uneasy wearing just one coat, it's a good idea to use innerwear that can be layered. In addition to functionality, choosing a design that makes your dog even cuter will make walks on cold days more enjoyable.

When taking your dog for a walk, choose a time during the day when it is relatively warm, and keep the walk shorter than usual. When you get home, gently wipe down your dog's cold hands, feet, and body to warm them up.

Point 3: Don't let your guard down even when you're away from home!

When your dog is left alone while you're away, are you fully prepared to protect him from the cold? Leaving the air conditioner on is one option, but putting a heated carpet or hot water bottle in his bed is also effective.

However, please be careful of low-temperature burns and accidents caused by chewing on the cord. Be sure to choose a product designed specifically for pets and equipped with safety features . It is also important to provide your dog with options to regulate their own body temperature, such as providing a fluffy blanket so they can rest away from the heater.

Petopop's items combine design and functionality, gently wrapping your precious family in a comfortable space even when you're away from home.

Summary: Get through the winter in good health with these loving cold weather protection measures!

Keeping small dogs warm in the winter doesn't have to be something special. Just a few small changes in your awareness can make a big difference in how comfortable your dog is in the winter.

1. Prevents "coldness from the floor" in the room
2. When walking, dress your dog in warm clothes and keep it short.
3. Ensuring "safe warmth" when you're away from home

Keep these three points in mind to ensure you and your dog have a warm and enjoyable winter. Petopop will continue to provide information and items that will make the daily lives of pet owners and their beloved dogs even happier.