[Veterinarian Supervised] Don't be afraid to know! What's the correct way to protect small dogs from the cold? 3 tips to protect your dog from the winter cold

Have you ever seen your beloved dog shivering on a winter morning and wondered, "Is this cold weather protection really enough?" The winter cold is a more serious problem than we might think, especially for small dogs that are small and live close to the ground. Incorrect cold weather protection measures can lead to poor health or unexpected accidents.

In this article, the Petopop editorial team, under the supervision of a veterinarian, will thoroughly explain the "three truly correct tips" for protecting small dogs from the cold in Japan's winter environment. Check them out now to ensure your beloved family member stays warm and comfortable this winter!

Tip 1: Review your room's "environment"! What are the unexpected pitfalls?

You may think, "I have the heater on, so I feel safe indoors," but there are actually some pitfalls. Even if a temperature is comfortable for humans, it may be too cold or even dangerous for your dog.

Check the temperature and humidity near the floor

Warm air tends to rise, and cold air tends to accumulate at the bottom. This means that the temperature can differ by several degrees between the height at which we feel comfortable and the temperature near the floor where your dog spends time. Hardwood floors are particularly prone to getting cold, so be sure to provide your dog with a fluffy bed or a thick mat . Drafts can easily get in near windows and doors, so it's best to place the bed closer to the center of the room.

Dryness is the cause of skin problems! Don't forget to humidify your skin

Heating in winter dries out the air and robs your dog's skin and fur of moisture. Dryness can cause dandruff and itching. When using heating, try to use a humidifier to keep the humidity at 50% to 60% . This kills two birds with one stone as it also helps prevent colds for humans.

Tip 2: Functional clothing is a must-have item when going for a walk!

Many dogs love to go for walks, even in winter. However, if they suddenly go from a warm indoor environment to a cold outdoor environment, they risk heat shock. Single-coated breeds (those with one layer of fur), such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Miniature Pinschers, are particularly susceptible to the cold. Be sure to dress your dog in warm clothing when you go for a walk.

Three points to consider when choosing clothing

• Warmth: We recommend fleece-lined or padded down vests.
• Ease of movement: If the material is stiff and difficult to move in, your dog will not want to walk in it. Choose a material that is stretchy.
• Ease of putting on and taking off: Since it will be put on every time you go for a walk, it is important that the design makes it easy for the owner to put on and take off without stress.

Recently, there has been an increase in clothing that is not only warm but also stylish and water-repellent so that it can be used on rainy and snowy days. Petopop has a wide selection of Petopop items that combine design and functionality, so be sure to find the perfect piece for your beloved dog.

Tip 3: Give senior dogs and puppies some "extra consideration"

Puppies, whose body temperature regulation functions are immature, and senior dogs, whose physical strength has declined, need to be more careful about the cold than adult dogs.

Senior dogs should be careful of cold joints

Senior dogs' joint pain can worsen when their circulation is poor due to the cold. In addition to providing a warm bed in their room, it's a good idea to use a pet heater or hot water bottle set to low temperature (be careful to avoid low-temperature burns). It's also important to take measures such as not forcing your dog to go for walks, and keeping them short during warm days.

For puppies, the first priority is to prevent their body temperature from dropping.

A weak puppy can lose body heat even in a slight cold, and can quickly become ill. When you first bring your puppy home in winter, it's important to thoroughly manage the room temperature, provide multiple warm places for them to sleep , and create an environment where they can regulate their own body temperature.

Summary: Don't miss your dog's signs and have a warm and fun winter!

Keeping small dogs warm during the cold season isn't just about keeping them warm.

1. Room environment: Pay attention to the temperature and humidity around the floor
2. Walking clothes: Choose clothes that emphasize functionality and ease of movement
3. Age-conscious: Special care for senior dogs and puppies

By following these three tips and carefully observing your dog's daily signs, such as whether they are shivering or hunched over, you can ensure a safe and heartwarming winter with your dog by taking all the necessary precautions with the right knowledge!