[Veterinarian-supervised] Cold weather protection for small dogs that are sensitive to the cold | 3 points to solve winter problems

The bitterly cold winter continues. Many pet owners may be worried when they see their beloved dog shivering, wondering, "Is he cold?" Small dogs, especially those who are small and live closer to the ground, are more susceptible to the cold than we think.

In this article, we'll focus on three key points for keeping your beloved dog warm during the winter, and provide an easy-to-understand explanation. Supervised by a veterinarian, the tips are all ideas you can put into practice right away. We hope you'll find them useful.

Why do small dogs get cold easily?

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

• Large body surface area relative to volume: Body heat tends to escape easily.
• Close to the ground: It is easily affected directly by cold air (radiant heat) from the ground.
• Coat type: Single-coated dog breeds such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles are said to be particularly sensitive to the cold because they do not have an undercoat to protect them from the cold.

Shivering may be a sign that your dog is cold. Take proper precautions to help your dog survive the winter in good health!

Point 1: Review your room environment and create a cozy space

The first thing to consider is creating a comfortable environment in the room where your dog spends most of its time. Small changes can make a big difference in how comfortable your dog is.

Measures to prevent flooring from getting cold

In winter, flooring can be colder than you might imagine. If your home doesn't have underfloor heating, we recommend placing a rug or cork mat in the area where your dog spends time. Simply preventing your dog from coming into direct contact with the cold floor will significantly increase the perceived temperature.

The area around the bed can be used for "nesting"

Add a fluffy blanket to your dog's bed so that they can regulate their own body temperature. A "nest"-like environment where they can burrow and curl up will also give them a sense of security. Also, when using a pet heater, be careful of low-temperature burns, and pay attention to the setting temperature and placement so that your dog's skin does not come into direct contact with the heater for long periods of time.

Tip 2: Stay warm and stylish with winter wear when taking a walk!

"It's too cold in the winter and your dog doesn't want to go for walks..." Do you have that problem? That's when dog wear comes in handy. Clothes not only protect your dog from the cold, but also keep them from getting wet in the rain or snow.

The stomach area, which is closest to the ground, is especially prone to getting cold. It's a good idea to choose clothing designed to fully cover the stomach. From stylish sweaters to functional jackets, Petopop's items offer both design and warmth. Find the perfect outfit for your dog and make winter walks even more enjoyable!

Tips for choosing clothing

• Material: We recommend items with fleece or boa linings as they are highly insulating.
• Size: Choose something that fits your body well and doesn't restrict movement.
• Ease of putting on and taking off: For children who have trouble putting on clothes, choosing a design that is easy to put on and take off will reduce stress.

Tip 3: Don't forget to take measures against dryness, which is often overlooked

In winter, the air inside your home is very dry due to heating, which can lead to problems with your dog's skin, paws, and coat.

Room humidity control

Use a humidifier or hang wet towels in the room to keep the indoor humidity at around 40-60%, which is a comfortable humidity level for humans.

Moisturizing care for paws

Walking on dry asphalt can cause your dog's paws to crack. After a walk, wipe off any dirt with a wet towel and gently care for them with a pet moisturizing cream.

summary

There are three basic ways to protect your small dog from the cold: 1) the room environment, 2) clothing for walks, and 3) dry care. With a little ingenuity, your dog will be able to spend the winter comfortably.

Observe your dog's condition carefully and find a way to help him get through the cold season that suits him best. Petopop supports you in making every winter day warmer and more enjoyable for you and your dog.