[Veterinarian-supervised] Cold weather measures for small dogs! 3 tips to protect your dog from the winter cold
The bitterly cold winter weather has arrived. Our beloved family members, especially small breeds, are often more sensitive to the cold than we humans realize. If you're wondering, "My dog seems to be shivering a lot lately..." then it may be a sign that you need to reassess your cold weather protection measures.
Cold weather not only makes your dog unwell, but it also lowers their quality of life. So today, the Petopop editorial team, under the supervision of a veterinarian, will introduce three practical cold weather tips for small dogs that you can start using right away!
First of all, why are small dogs so susceptible to the cold?
The reason why small dogs are vulnerable to the cold is due to their body structure. The smaller their body, the greater their body surface area per unit of weight, making it easier for heat to escape from their bodies. Also, because they are closer to the ground, they feel the cold of flooring and asphalt directly.
In particular, single-coated (no undercoat) breeds such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Italian Greyhounds, as well as senior dogs and puppies, require extra care as they have difficulty regulating their body temperature.
You can start today! 3 tips for keeping your small dog warm in the cold
To ensure your dog stays safe and comfortable during the winter, consider measures both inside and outside the home.
1. Creating a warm environment in your home 🏡
Something that is surprisingly often overlooked is how to protect yourself from the cold indoors. Many Japanese homes have wooden floors, so in winter it gets really cold from the feet up. Your dog is constantly feeling that cold.
- Prepare a warm sleeping area: Consider a dome-shaped bed or a fluffy blanket. Since drafts can easily get in near windows or doors, it's recommended to move the sleeping area to a warmer spot, such as the center of the room.
- Shut out the cold from the floor: Place a cork mat or rug in areas where your dog spends a lot of time. Just one piece can significantly reduce the cold from the floor.
- Beware of dryness! Heating your home can make the air drier. Dryness can cause skin problems and respiratory problems. Use a humidifier to keep the humidity between 40% and 60%.
2. Make your walks more comfortable by choosing the right clothing 🧣
Not going for a walk just because it's cold can lead to lack of exercise and stress. Choose a warm day, take proper precautions against the cold, and make your walk a fun one!
The key is to protect your heart and stomach area from the cold.
Choose clothing made from lightweight, warm materials such as fleece or down. Stretchy clothing that doesn't restrict movement will make your dog comfortable wearing it. Petopop's items are especially stylish and highly functional, protecting your dog from cold winds and sudden temperature changes, making them a great companion for winter walks.
3. Winter Health & Body Care: Things You May Overlook
In addition to clothing and room environment, small daily care will also help protect your dog's health.
- Keep your paws moist: Cold, dry asphalt can cause cracked and dry paws. After your walk, gently wipe them down with warm water and treat them with a pet moisturizing cream.
- Don't forget to stay hydrated: In winter, pets are less likely to feel thirsty and tend to drink less water. It's important to make sure your pet has fresh water available at all times, and it's also effective to moisten dry food with hot water to help your pet get more moisture from its diet.
- Heat shock prevention: Suddenly going from a warm indoor environment to a cold outdoor environment can cause heat shock, which puts strain on the heart. Before going for a walk, let your dog get used to being in a slightly cooler place, such as the entrance, before going outside.
summary
There are three basic ways to protect small dogs from the cold: 1) the home environment, 2) clothing for walks, and 3) daily care. It's important to observe your dog's behavior on a daily basis, such as whether they're shivering or hunched over, and to take measures that are appropriate for your dog.
With a little ingenuity, winter can be more fun and safer with your dog. Let's create some great memories with Petopop this winter too!