[Veterinarian Supervised] Are Small Dogs Warm Enough for the Cold? 3 Tips for Indoors and on Walks

As winter approaches, many pet owners worry, "Is my dog ​​cold?" Small dogs, especially, are more sensitive to the cold than we humans think. When you see your dog shivering (causes of dog shivering) or curled up to sleep, you want to do something to help.

In fact, small dogs have difficulty maintaining their body temperature, so taking measures against the cold is very important for their health. In this article, we will introduce three tips for keeping your small dog warm in the cold that you can put into practice right away, both indoors and on walks, while also taking into account points to note that are unique to living environments in Japan.

Why are small dogs more susceptible to the cold?

The reason why small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Yorkshire Terriers are vulnerable to the cold is due to their physical structure. There are three main reasons for this:

• Larger body surface area relative to body weight: The smaller the body, the easier it is for heat to escape from the body.
• Close to the ground: They are more susceptible to the direct effects of cold winter air from the cold flooring and asphalt.
• Less fat and muscle: Because they have less fat and muscle to produce heat and act as insulators, they tend to have a harder time maintaining body temperature.

In particular, single-coated dog breeds, as well as weak puppies and senior dogs, require extra care.

You can start right now! 3 tips for keeping your small dog warm in the cold

Now, let's take a look at some specific measures. We will explain them in three areas: "room," "goods," and "walking."

Tip 1: Eliminate cold spots in the room

One thing that is surprisingly often overlooked is how to protect your dog from the cold indoors. In particular, you should create a comfortable environment so that your dog doesn't get cold while you're away from home.

• Preventing cold from the floor: The flooring that is common in Japanese homes gets cold in the winter. Simply placing a rug or cork mat in areas where your dog regularly spends time can make a big difference.
• Maintain a comfortable room temperature and humidity: A good room temperature is around 20°C to 22°C. When using an air conditioner, be careful not to let the hot air directly hit your dog. Also, the dry air caused by heating puts a strain on your dog's skin and respiratory system. It is ideal to use a humidifier to keep the humidity at 50% to 60%.
• Relocate your bed: Places near windows or doors are prone to drafts, so even if it's warm, try to avoid placing your bed in a location that is exposed to cold air.

Tip 2: Make smart use of the latest warm items

It's also important to provide items that allow your dog to keep warm on its own. Pay attention to functionality as well as appearance to make winter at home more enjoyable.

• Dome-shaped beds made of warm materials: Dome-shaped dog beds that completely encase your dog's body, or beds made of highly insulating materials such as fleece, will help keep your dog warm by trapping heat.
• Stylish indoor wear: Even when the heating is on, if your dog has trouble regulating his body temperature, we recommend that you dress him in lightweight, easy-to-move-in indoor dog clothes. Petopop offers a wide selection of items that combine design and functionality. You're sure to find the perfect piece for your beloved dog. Be sure to check out the stylish Petopop items .
• How to use pet heaters safely: Pet heaters are a great help when you're away from home, but they can also pose a risk of low-temperature burns and chewing on cords. Be sure to choose one specifically designed for pets, and make sure your dog has a place to escape to if they feel too hot, such as by heating only half of their bed.

Tip 3: Plan your time and equipment for winter walks

Many dogs love to go for walks even in the cold, so there are a few things you can do to make winter walks safe and comfortable for your dog.

• Choose a warm time of day: It's best to go for a walk during the middle of the day when the temperature is highest.
• Wear functional cold weather clothing: We recommend outerwear made of windbreaker material to protect you from the cold wind, or warm clothing with fleece on the inside. Your stomach is especially susceptible to getting cold, so choose a design that provides ample coverage.
• Treat your dog's paws: Cold asphalt and snow can cause cracked paws, so putting dog boots on your dog and applying moisturizing paw cream before and after walks can help.

summary

Protecting your small dog from the cold doesn't have to be something special. By simply paying attention to three points - the room environment, warm items, and tips for walking - your dog will be able to spend the winter comfortably.

Please observe your dog carefully and find a way to give him or her a warm and safe winter. Petopop will help you make your daily life more enjoyable and fulfilling for both you and your dog.