[Veterinarian's advice] 3 tips for keeping small dogs warm in the cold

The bitter cold of winter is upon us. For small dogs, whose bodies are small and close to the ground, winter is a season when they are particularly susceptible to losing body heat. Owners have endless worries, such as cold floors and dry air caused by heating.

But don't worry! With a little ingenuity, your beloved dog can stay warm and comfortable this winter. Here, we at Petopop will introduce three easy-to-understand, specific winter protection measures to solve your winter worries. 🐶❄️

Point 1: Creating a warm and comfortable room

The first thing to consider is the environment inside the home. In particular, Japanese homes have hardwood floors and drafts from windows, making the lower areas where dogs are kept colder than you might imagine.

• Relocate your bed: Avoid placing it near a door or window and move it to a warmer, draft-free part of the room.
• Blocks out cold air from the floor: Simply placing a thick mattress or rug under your bed can significantly reduce the cold coming from the floor. Dome-shaped or high-rimmed beds are also recommended as they tend to trap heat.
• Keep your dog away from heaters: While stoves and heaters may be warm, they can also pose a risk of low-temperature burns and dehydration. Always keep your dog at a safe distance and allow him to move freely.

Point 2: Look smart with your clothes when walking in winter

Even if you think, "My dog ​​is indoors, so it's fine," the sudden change in temperature when you go for a walk can put a lot of strain on their body. Single-coated dog breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, are particularly susceptible to the cold, so clothing is essential.

It's best to take your dog for a walk during the warmer hours of the day. Dressing your dog in functional and stylish clothing will protect them from the cold and make your walk even more enjoyable. Coordinate your dog's outfit with a warm fleece-lined top or windproof outerwear to suit the temperature of the day. With Petopop's excellent design and functionality, you're sure to find something you love. 🧥✨

Also, don't forget to use dog boots and moisturizing cream to protect your dog's delicate paws from the cold asphalt and snow.

Point 3: "Care from the inside" to combat dryness

The cold isn't the only problem in winter. The air in a heated room tends to be dry, which can make your dog's skin and fur dry and flaky.

• Keep your pet hydrated: Make sure they have fresh water available at all times. In winter, they may not feel thirsty as easily, so it is also effective to provide hydration through their diet, such as by feeding them wet food.
• Control humidity: Ideally, use a humidifier to keep the humidity in the room between 40% and 60%. This also helps prevent static electricity.
• Balanced diet: Healthy skin and coat come from good nutrition, so choose a food that contains fatty acids such as omega-3 fatty acids, which support the skin's barrier function.

What do you think? By simply focusing on three points - "room," "walks," and "inner care," you can dramatically improve your dog's winter comfort. Don't miss the little signs your precious family member shows, and spend a fun winter together with loving, cold weather protection measures!