[Veterinarian-supervised] Protect your beloved dog from the cold in winter! 3 tips for keeping your small dog warm

With the arrival of winter in earnest, the cold weather is affecting even humans. Small dogs live closer to the ground than us and have trouble regulating their body temperature, so winter is a season that requires special care. "My dog ​​seems to be shivering lately..." "He seems cold, so he doesn't want to go for walks..." Do you have any concerns like these?

Many small breeds, such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Miniature Dachshunds, are sensitive to the cold and can become ill due to the cold. Petopop introduces three cold weather protection tips you can put into practice right away to help your beloved dog stay comfortable and healthy this winter.

Tip 1: Don't let your guard down even indoors! How to protect yourself from the cold

You might think, "It's okay because it's warm indoors," but in fact, even in a heated room, there are "cold spots" that are dangerous for small dogs.

One thing to be especially careful of is the cold coming from the floor. Dogs spend their time much closer to the floor than humans, so they feel the cold directly through their feet. Drafts coming in through gaps in doors and windows can also take away body heat.

• Prepare a warm bed: Prepare a warm bed and blanket made of fleece or boa material that retains heat. A bed that is slightly elevated from the floor is also effective in preventing cold feet. A fluffy bed that gently wraps your dog in, like the Petopop item , is a must-have item for winter.
• Review the location of the cage or playpen: Avoid places where cold air can easily enter, such as near a window or door, and move it to a relatively warmer part of the room.
• Use a pet heater: It is recommended to use a heated carpet or heater designed specifically for pets, which reduces the risk of low-temperature burns. However, be sure to take safety measures to prevent your pet from chewing on the cord.

Point 2: Make your walks even more fun! How to choose the right clothes and time

Even in the cold, walks are important times for dogs. However, for dogs that don't like the cold, going outside can be a hassle. With a few simple tips, you can make winter walks safe and enjoyable.

Winter dog clothing is no longer just for fashion. It's an important cold weather gear for keeping dogs warm, especially for single-coated dogs (without undercoat) and senior dogs.

• Choose functional dog clothing: Choose clothing with high thermal insulation and wind resistance, such as fleece or boa linings, or windproof nylon outerwear. Water-repellent clothing is also useful, as it can withstand sudden rain or snow.
• Consider the time of day you take your dog for a walk: It is recommended to take your dog for a walk during the warmer hours of the day (around 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) when the temperature is relatively high. Avoid the extremely cold early mornings and nighttime hours.
• Don't forget to take care of your dog's paws: Cold asphalt can damage your dog's paws, so it's a good idea to apply a protective paw cream or put dog boots on them before walks.

Point 3: Protect yourself from the often-overlooked dryness! Winter health care

The cold isn't the only enemy in winter. Heating appliances make the air inside your home drier than you might imagine. This dryness can cause problems for your dog's skin and respiratory system.

Dry air can cause moisture loss from the skin, leading to dandruff and itching, and dry, cracked paws. It has also been pointed out that dry mucous membranes in the throat and nose can make your pet more susceptible to viral infections.

• Control humidity with a humidifier: A humidity level of 50-60% is recommended for your dog's comfort. Use a humidifier to keep the indoor environment comfortable.
• Keep your pet hydrated: Always have fresh water available. Adding a little warm water to dry food to soften it will kill two birds with one stone by providing hydration along with the meal.
• Incorporate moisturizing care: Choose a mild shampoo that contains moisturizing ingredients, and use a moisturizing spray when brushing to prevent the skin from drying out.

How was it?
With a little ingenuity and consideration, you can protect your beloved dog from the harsh winter cold. Please observe your dog's condition carefully and find the best cold weather protection measures for your dog. Petopop hopes that all dogs and their owners have a warm and happy winter.