[Petopop Style] Even small dogs who are sensitive to the cold can learn to love winter! 3 must-have cold weather protection measures

The air has suddenly gotten colder, and winter is finally here. Just as we prepare for winter with stylish coats and scarves, it's an important responsibility of pet owners to keep their beloved family members, especially small breeds, warm and protected from the cold. 🐶❄️

"My child seems to be shivering..." "The floor seems cold..." Do you have any concerns like that?

Small dogs have a weaker ability to maintain their body temperature and are easily affected by cold air coming from the ground, making them very sensitive to the cold. So, in this article, we'll introduce three tips from the Petopop editorial team for keeping your small dog warm in the cold that anyone can start today!

Why is winter protection especially important for small dogs?

There are three main reasons why small dogs are vulnerable to the cold.

• Large body surface area per unit of body weight: Body heat tends to escape easily.
• Close to the ground: It is easily affected by the cold air from the ground (chill from the ground).
• Low in fat: Many dog ​​breeds have little subcutaneous fat, which acts as insulation.

For these reasons, taking proper precautions is key to keeping your dog healthy, especially in Japan's winter living conditions (cold flooring, drafts, etc.).

Tip 1: Create a comfortable room environment

The first thing to consider is the room environment your dog spends most of its time in. Even if you have the heating on, there are unexpected places where your dog can get cold.

【countermeasure】

• Prepare a warm place to sleep: Prepare a dome-shaped bed or a fluffy blanket. It's important to avoid placing it near a window or door where cold air can easily get in.
• Block out cold air from the floor: Simply laying a cork mat or thick rug on the floor can make a big difference in the perceived temperature. Take measures in areas where your dog often spends time.
• Use pet heaters and hot water bottles: Be careful of low-temperature burns, and use them safely by covering them or placing them under the bed to prevent direct contact with the skin.

Dry air caused by heating can also cause skin problems in dogs, so be sure to use a humidifier to keep the humidity at 50% to 60%!

Tip 2: Stay warm and smart when walking in winter

Walking is an important daily routine, even in winter. But you can't enjoy it if you're shivering in the cold. When you go for a walk, you need to take measures to protect your body from the cold.

【countermeasure】

• Dress your dog in functional dog clothing: The key to combating the cold is warm clothing. We recommend clothing with fleece or boa linings, or materials that are windproof. If you're looking for both warmth and style, we recommend Petopop items . Choosing a design that covers your dog's belly is even more effective.
• Choose a warm time of day: Time your walks during the hottest part of the day (11am-2pm). Avoid the extremely cold early mornings and evenings.
• Don't forget to take care of your dog's paws: To protect them from the cold asphalt, you can put on dog boots and apply protective paw cream before walks.

Point 3: Inner care to protect your body from winter dryness

It's important to support your health from the inside out, as well as from the outside. In winter, we tend to drink less water, and we can become dehydrated without even realizing it.

【countermeasure】

• Tips for hydration: Of course, it's important to make sure fresh water is available at all times, but it's also effective to soak dry food in lukewarm water or introduce wet food.
• Moisturizing care: Heated rooms tend to have dry air, which can lead to static electricity and dandruff. Using a moisturizing spray for dogs when brushing can help keep their coat and skin moisturized.

summary

This time, we have introduced three points to keep small dogs warm in winter.

1. Improves the room environment and protects from cold and dryness.
2. Choose warm clothes and a time of day for your walk to make it fun and comfortable.
3. Hydrate and moisturize to keep your body hydrated inside and out.

With a few simple ideas and items, winter with your dog can be warmer and more enjoyable. Start practicing today and enjoy a wonderful winter with your beloved dog! ❤️