Before your dog starts shivering! 3 tips for keeping your small dog warm in the cold, supervised by a veterinarian

As winter approaches, we humans enjoy spending time at home with kotatsu tables and hot drinks, but this is a season that requires a little extra care for your little family member, your beloved dog. Small dogs, especially those who are small and live close to the ground, are more susceptible to the cold than we might think. Even if you think, "My dog ​​is indoors, so it's fine," the cold air from the flooring and drafts from the windows may be unknowingly taking away their body heat.

"My beloved dog has been shivering a lot lately..." "He looks so cold, I feel sorry for him, what should I do?" For pet owners like this, Petopop has narrowed down to three key cold weather protection measures for small dogs that you can start putting into practice right away!

Tip 1: Create a warm spot in the room [How to protect your dog from the cold indoors]

The first thing to do is to create a safe indoor environment for your dog when you are away from home or at night. In particular, in apartments and condominiums, the cold coming from the floor can be a major enemy for small dogs.

• Upgrade your bed area: Replace your summer cooling mat with a warm fleece or boa bed or blanket. Simply placing your bed against a wall to avoid direct exposure to cold air can also be effective.
• Smart ways to use pet heaters: On extremely cold days, one option is to use a pet heater, which reduces the risk of low-temperature burns. However, it is important to make sure that the cord is covered to prevent your dog from chewing on it, and that there is enough space for your dog to move around if it feels too hot.
• Beware of dryness! Heating can dry out the air, which can lead to skin problems. Using a humidifier or hanging out a wet towel can help maintain a comfortable humidity level.

Instead of heating the entire room, you can create a "cozy spot" just for your dog, which is an economical and safe way to keep your dog warm indoors .

Point 2: How to choose "dog winter clothes" that will make walks more enjoyable

Even in winter, walking is an important daily routine. However, taking your dog out in the cold without a mask is a big no-no! Dog winter clothes are no longer just a fashion accessory. They are essential items to protect your dog from the cold and prevent it from losing body heat.

The key points to consider when choosing are the material and shape.

• Material: We recommend fleece or brushed-lined jackets, or lightweight yet warm down or padded vests. Windproof nylon outerwear is also useful on cold, windy days.
• Shape: Choose a design that provides ample coverage for your dog's stomach, which is prone to getting cold. Stretchy materials will not restrict the movement of active dogs.

These days, there is a lot of clothing that is not only functional but also has excellent design. Why not find the perfect outfit for your beloved dog and make your winter walks even more enjoyable? Petopop has a wide selection of items that are both comfortable and stylish. Be sure to check out Petopop's items .

Tip 3: Warm your body from the inside out: "Winter health management"

The final point is daily care, which is often overlooked. Protecting yourself from the cold is not just about the environment and clothing.

• Food and hydration: Dogs' basal metabolic rate increases in winter to maintain body temperature. However, some dogs become less active due to the cold weather. Observe your dog's behavior and fine-tune the amount of food they eat. Also, since they tend to drink less water, it is effective to encourage hydration by giving them lukewarm water or slightly softening their food.
• Consideration for senior dogs: As dogs get older, their ability to regulate their body temperature weakens, making them more susceptible to the cold. If you notice your dog shivering , it's a sign that he's cold. Please reassess your room temperature, clothing, and other precautions.
• Paw care: Cold asphalt can cause your dog's paws to dry out and crack. After a walk, gently clean them with warm water and apply a moisturizing cream.

With a little ingenuity, your beloved dog can spend the winter much more comfortably. Start taking measures to protect your pet from the cold today so that your precious family member can survive the winter in good health!