No more shivering! Veterinarian's tips for keeping small dogs warm in the cold. 3 steps to solve winter problems

Have you ever felt a chill in your heart when you saw your beloved dog shivering on a winter morning? Small dogs like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles are particularly susceptible to the cold because their bodies are small and close to the ground. Winter in Japan can be a harsh environment for dogs, with cold floors and drafts even inside.

But don't worry. With a little ingenuity, you can protect your beloved dog from the cold winter weather and keep them comfortable. In this article, the Petopop editorial team, based on advice from veterinarians, will introduce three steps to keep your small dog warm in the cold that you can start practicing right away!

Step 1: [Indoors] Make your room a "cozy and safe zone"

First of all, it's important to consider the room environment where your dog spends most of the day. Even if the heating is on, it can still feel surprisingly cold from your dog's perspective.

Bedding upgrade

Cold air tends to accumulate at the bottom. If your dog's bed is on the floor, try adding an extra blanket or mat. Dome-shaped or fluffy fleece beds are especially recommended as they help retain heat. Create your dog's own warm hideaway where they can curl up in peace.

Measures for flooring and windowsills

Smooth flooring feels cool in winter. Place cork mats or rugs in areas where your dog spends a lot of time. This will also reduce strain on their legs and hips. Also, cold air coming through windows is a big enemy. Simply moving your dog's bed a little further away from the window can make a big difference in the perceived temperature.

Step 2: [Walk Edition] Stay active even in winter! Choose your clothing wisely

"It's too cold, so I'm going to take a break from walking..." This can lead to lack of exercise and stress. By choosing the right clothing, you can enjoy your winter walks!

Choose functional "walking wear"

Clothes for small dogs aren't just cute. What's important is warmth and ease of movement. We recommend items with fleece or boa linings, or materials that are windproof. In particular, Petopop items , which are designed to protect the stomach from the cold and made of materials that allow for easy movement, are perfect for active small dogs.

Time and course innovation

It's best to go for a walk during the day when the sun is as warm as possible. Avoid the cold of early mornings and nights. Also, on windy days, choosing a route near a park or building where you can avoid the wind can be a big improvement in comfort with just a few simple steps.

Step 3: [Health Care] Protect your body from dryness and cold

In winter, not only is the cold weather bad for dogs, but dryness is also a major enemy. Support your dog's health with internal care, which is often overlooked.

Humidification keeps your skin moist

Heated rooms are drier than people realize. Dryness can lead to skin problems and respiratory problems. Try to maintain an appropriate humidity level (40-60% is a good guideline) by using a humidifier or hanging wet towels in the room.

Paw care and hydration

Cold asphalt can cause paws to dry out and crack. After a walk, gently clean them with warm water and apply a moisturizing paw cream. Dogs also tend to drink less water in winter, as they are less likely to feel thirsty. Making sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times and softening their dry food in hot water is also a good way to combat this.

What did you think? By simply focusing on three points - indoor environment, walks, and health care - your beloved dog can spend the winter comfortably. Please try it out today so that your precious family member can stay full of energy and smile this winter. ❤️