Share
[Veterinarian Supervised] Is your dog shivering a sign of cold? 3 quick ways to keep your small dog warm
The air has suddenly gotten colder, and winter is finally here. Have you noticed your dog shivering in the corner of the sofa, or sleeping curled up more than usual? These signs could be a sign that he's feeling cold.
Small dogs , such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, are particularly susceptible to the cold because of their small size and close proximity to the ground. The cold can also cause them to become ill. Here are three veterinarian-recommended ways to keep small dogs warm at home right away.
Countermeasure 1: Review your room environment! Be careful of cold and dry feet
Even at room temperatures that we humans find comfortable, dogs, especially small breeds, can feel chilly. First, let's take a look at the room environment.
point:
- Avoid placing your pet's bed or house near a window: Near a window, cold air from outside can easily get in and drafts can come in. Move your pet to a warm, quiet place.
- Place mats on flooring: Cold air accumulates at the bottom. Flooring is particularly susceptible to getting cold, so it is effective to place rugs or warm mats in areas where your dog spends a lot of time. This is the easiest way to protect your dog from the cold (indoors) .
- Prevent dryness caused by heating: Heating devices such as air conditioners dry out the air, which can lead to problems with your dog's skin and coat. Make sure to use a humidifier to maintain an appropriate humidity level (40-60%).
Tip 2: When walking on cold days, the key is "time" and "clothing"
Walking is an important daily routine even in winter, but on extremely cold days, you need to be creative. Many dog owners worry about how to walk their dog on cold days , but it's important not to overdo it.
point:
- Choose a warm time: Early mornings and evenings can be very cold, so try to go for a walk during the warmer hours of the day when there is plenty of sunshine.
- Dressing them: You may be wondering, " Do dogs really need clothes? " But winter clothes are extremely important for small dogs, who have trouble regulating their body temperature. This is especially important for breeds with single coats (one layer of fur). Not only does it protect them from the cold, it also helps prevent them from getting dirty. With warm, easy-to-move-in, and stylish Petopop items , your dog will love winter walks.
Solution 3: Warm up from the inside! Diet and hydration tips
It's important to warm your dog from the inside out as well as from the outside. A little ingenuity can make a big difference in how comfortable your dog is in winter.
point:
- Keep the water lukewarm: People tend to drink less water in the winter. Cold water can cool the body, so keeping the water lukewarm (about body temperature) will help encourage hydration.
- Warm the food: It is also recommended to pour a little hot water over dry food to soften it, or to warm wet food a little. This will increase the aroma and stimulate your pet's appetite.
If your dog shivers in the winter , it's a sign from their body that they need help. By incorporating the three measures introduced here, you can help your dog stay warm and comfortable during the winter. With just a little care, you can make winter life with your dog more enjoyable and healthy.