[Veterinarian-supervised] Cold weather protection for small dogs! 3 tips to protect your dog from the winter cold

The bitterly cold winter weather has arrived. Just as we humans protect ourselves with coats and scarves, winter preparations are essential for our beloved dogs, who are part of our small family, especially small breeds that are sensitive to the cold. Shivering or refusing to go for walks may be a sign from your dog that it's cold. In this article, we'll introduce three key cold weather protection measures for small dogs, tailored to Japan's living environment and climate.

1. Don't let your guard down even indoors! "How to protect yourself from the cold indoors"

You might think, "It's okay because they're in a heated room," but the truth is, small dogs live much closer to the floor than we do. Warm air accumulates on top and cold air accumulates on the bottom, so they directly feel the cold of the flooring and drafts from doorways.

Specific measures

• A warm place to sleep: Prepare a fluffy blanket or a thick bed. The key is to place it in a warm place in the room, avoiding places near windows or doors.
• Use pet heaters: Heaters and heated carpets made specifically for pets are a great winter ally as they reduce the risk of low-temperature burns. You can use them safely even when you're away from home.
• Comfortable loungewear: Dressing your dog in lightweight, easy-to-move-in loungewear indoors can help regulate their body temperature. This is especially recommended for senior dogs, who are prone to losing body heat.

2. Enjoy your winter walks! "How to protect yourself from the cold when going out"

Winter walks can be a big strain on small dogs, as the temperature difference between inside and outside can be extreme. Here are some tips for walking your dog to protect it from the cold and keep it warm in both body and mind.

Specific measures

• Dress your dog in functional dog clothes: Choose warm clothes with fleece or boa linings. Windproof nylon and water-repellent outerwear are also useful for snowy and rainy days. Stylish and functional clothing will make walks on cold days even more enjoyable. Be sure to check out Petopop's items , which incorporate the latest trends.
• Choose the best time to go for a walk: Choose the warmest time of day to go for a walk. Avoid the extremely cold times of the day, such as early morning or late night.
• Don't forget to take care of your dog's paws: Cold asphalt and snowy roads can cause cracked paws and frostbite, so apply paw cream or put dog boots on your dog before walks to protect them.

3. An often overlooked winter enemy: "Dryness and health management"

The cold isn't the only threat of winter. Dry air caused by heating can affect your dog's skin, coat, and respiratory system. Increased dandruff and itching may be due to dryness.

Specific measures

• Control humidity with a humidifier: Install a humidifier in the living room where your dog spends most of his time and maintain an appropriate humidity level (40% to 60%). This also helps prevent viruses.
• Drink plenty of water: When the air is dry, your pet's body tends to lose fluids without you even realizing it. Make sure your pet has fresh water available at all times.
• Brushing and moisturizing care: Regular brushing promotes blood circulation and keeps the skin healthy. If your pet's skin is dry, using a moisturizing spray for pets can also be effective.

With a little ingenuity, your beloved dog can stay comfortable and healthy throughout the winter. Use these three tips to help you and your dog spend a warm winter together.