[Veterinarian Supervised] Are you taking measures to protect your small dog from the cold? 3 essential points to protect your dog from the cold in winter

The air is gradually getting colder, and we can feel the arrival of winter. Many pet owners are probably worried, wondering, "Is my pet cold?"

The cold winter weather can be harsher than you might imagine, especially for small dogs that are small and close to the ground. It can even cause them to become ill. But don't worry! With a little ingenuity, you can help your dog stay warm and comfortable this winter.

This time, the Petopop editorial team, under the supervision of a veterinarian, will clearly explain three essential points for keeping small dogs warm in the cold that you can start doing right now!

First of all, why are small dogs so susceptible to the cold?

The reason why small dogs are sensitive to the cold is due to their body structure. Because their body surface area is large relative to their weight, their body heat easily escapes. Another major factor is that they are easily affected by cold air (radiant heat) from the ground. The hardwood floors that are common in Japanese homes feel especially chilly in winter.

If your dog endures the cold, it may develop an upset stomach or have a weakened immune system. Be sure not to ignore the signs that your dog is cold (such as curling up or shivering).

Tip 1: Create a cozy environment in your room 🏠

The first thing to do is to protect your room from the cold. Even if it's comfortable for you, it may be cold for your dog.

Prevents cold from the floor:
In areas where your dog usually spends time, provide a warm bed, blanket, or heated carpet for pets. If your dog spends time in a cage or playpen, simply covering the area with cloth will help prevent drafts and increase the heat retention effect.

Be careful of dryness too!
Heating dries out the air, which can lead to dry skin and fur. Ideally, use a humidifier to keep the humidity at 40-60%. A comfortable environment is important for maintaining healthy skin.

Tip 2: Wear stylish clothing to protect your dog when walking 🧣

Not taking your dog for a walk just because it's cold can lead to lack of exercise and stress. Functional and stylish dog wear is essential for winter walks.

Tips for choosing clothing:
Choose clothing with high thermal insulation, such as fleece, down, or brushed lining. We especially recommend designs that protect the stomach from the cold. If the size is not right, your dog will have difficulty moving and will not be as effective at keeping out the cold, so be sure to choose clothing that fits your dog's body properly.

If you're not sure what kind of clothing to choose, check out Petopop's items , which combine design and functionality. You're sure to find something you like.

Tip 3: Support yourself from the inside with "food and hydration" 🐾

Although it's easy to overlook, diet and hydration are also important for maintaining your health in winter. The energy that warms your body is produced from the food you eat every day.

Replenish your body with warming energy:
In winter, your dog will consume more energy than usual to maintain body temperature. One way to deal with this is to slightly adjust the amount of food your dog eats based on how much exercise it gets and how well it is feeling (consult your veterinarian).

Remember to stay hydrated:
When it gets cold, your pet tends to drink less water. Try giving them lukewarm water or giving them wet food to help them stay hydrated.

Summary: With a few simple tricks, you can have the best winter with your dog!

There's nothing special about keeping small dogs warm in the cold.

• Rethink your room environment
• Wear appropriate clothing when walking
• Support your body with food and hydration

By keeping these three points in mind, your beloved dog will be able to spend the winter in comfort and health. Why not start preparing for winter today for your beloved dog, a member of your family?