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

Winter is here! Just as we wrap ourselves in stylish coats, our beloved family dogs, especially small breeds that are sensitive to the cold, require special care. From cold floors to drafts through windows, many pet owners worry, "Is my dog ​​cold?"

The Petopop editorial team will thoroughly explain three key points for keeping small dogs warm in winter to help them get through the winter comfortably. Protect your beloved dog from the winter cold with these simple tips that you can start putting into practice right away!

Why is winter protection especially important for small dogs?

Small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Dachshunds are characterized by their small bodies and close proximity to the ground.

• Easily loses heat: The surface area to volume ratio is large, so body heat easily escapes.
• Feeling the cold of the ground directly: You are easily affected directly by the cold air (radiant heat) from the ground.
• Less fat and muscle: They have less fat and muscle mass to maintain body temperature than larger dogs.

For these reasons, small dogs feel the cold more than we think, so it's important to protect your dog's health with proper cold weather protection.

3 ways to keep your small dog warm in the cold, starting today!

Let's take a look at some practical measures. Here are some tips that will come in handy both inside and outside your home.

1. 🏠 Rethink your room environment

Start with the environment inside your home. Make the place where your dog spends most of their time comfortable.

Tip 1: Keep your bed warm
If your bed is placed directly on the floor, the cold air from the floor will get in. We recommend placing a rug or insulating mat under the bed, or a warm fleece blanket. Drafts are likely to come in near windows or doors, so move your bed to the center of the room or against a wall.

Tip 2: Be careful of dryness!
Heating the room dries the air more than you might imagine. Dryness can put a strain on your dog's skin and respiratory system. Try to maintain an appropriate humidity level (40-60% is a good guideline) by using a humidifier or hanging wet towels in the room.

2. 🧣 The key to walking is "time" and "clothing"

Even on cold days, walks are important times for dogs, but you shouldn't go out unprotected.

Tip 1: Choose a warm time of day
It's best to take your dog for a walk during the day when it's sunny and warm. Avoid early mornings and nights when it's very cold. The cold asphalt can put a strain on your dog's paws.

Point 2: Dress them in functional clothing
The idea that "dogs don't need clothes" is a thing of the past. Clothing is extremely effective at regulating body temperature, especially for dog breeds with single coats (those with a single layer of fur). Make use of items with fleece or boa linings, or windproof outerwear. Petopop's warm and easy-to-move-in items are not only stylish but also highly functional. Layering is also recommended for dogs that are sensitive to the cold.

3. 🍚 Eat foods that warm you from the inside and stay hydrated

In addition to external care, try to be conscious of warming your body from the inside.

Tip 1: Warm the food and water a little
Pouring hot water over dry food or warming wet food slightly to body temperature will warm your pet's body from the inside. This may also help increase their appetite. Cold water can cool the body, so it's a good idea to switch to lukewarm water.

Tip 2: Check your hydration
In winter, dogs tend to feel less thirsty than in summer, so they tend to drink less water. Check their urination frequently to make sure they are getting enough fluids.

summary

There are three basic ways to protect your small dog from the cold: 1) the room environment, 2) tips for walking, and 3) care for your dog from the inside . With just a few simple tips, your dog will be able to spend the winter comfortably.

Observe your dog carefully to see if he is shivering or curled up, and find the best cold weather protection measures for him.