[Veterinarian Supervised] Winter cold is small dogs' worst enemy! 3 cold weather tips that are often overlooked

The days are suddenly getting colder, and we can feel the full force of winter approaching. Just as we take our favorite coats out of the closet, we also need to think about preparing our beloved dogs for winter.

Small dogs, such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Pomeranians, are especially sensitive to the cold. Because their bodies are small, they are easily affected by the cold air coming from the ground, and they can lose their energy without even realizing it. If your dog is shivering in the corner of the living room, it could be a sign that they are cold.

This time, the Petopop editorial team will introduce three essential tips for keeping small dogs warm during the cold season. Armed with the right knowledge, you and your beloved dog can spend a warm and comfortable winter together.

Point 1: Review your room environment! Measures to prevent cold feet

One thing that is surprisingly often overlooked is how to protect your home from the cold. In particular, the flooring that is common in Japanese homes can get freezing cold in the winter. Small dogs that live close to the ground are directly exposed to this "cold air from their feet."

Countermeasure Actions

• Place a rug or mat: Simply place a thick rug or cork mat around the living room or sleeping area where your dog often spends time to keep out the cold air from the floor.
• Bed placement: Places near windows and doors are prone to drafts, so try moving your bed to the center of the room or against a wall.
• Utilizing dome-shaped beds: Igloo-shaped and dome-shaped beds completely cover the entire body and are highly insulating, allowing your dog to rest in peace.

Choosing a stylish rug that matches the interior of your room will lift your pet's spirits.

Point 2: When walking, the key is "time" and "clothes"!

Have you ever thought, "My dog ​​doesn't want to go for a walk because it's so cold..."? However, lack of exercise is the enemy of health. With a little ingenuity, you can turn winter walks into fun times.

Countermeasure Actions

• Choose a warm time of day: It is best to take your dog for a walk during the day when the temperature is highest (around 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM). Avoid early mornings and cold evenings.
• Dress your dog in functional clothing: Winter clothing is now a must-have for small dogs. It's especially important to have clothing that provides ample coverage around the stomach, where body heat can easily escape. Choose clothing that prioritizes warmth, such as fleece, down, or brushed lining. Petopop's stylish, one-piece items offer both warmth and style.
• Paw care: Cold asphalt can cause dry, cracked paws. Apply moisturizing cream before and after walks to gently care for your dog's paws.

Point 3: Dryness caused by heating can also cause coldness!

It's important to keep the room warm with an air conditioner or heater, but at the same time, the air becomes increasingly dry. In fact, this "dryness" can sometimes lower the temperature your dog feels.

Dry skin not only weakens the skin's barrier function, causing itching and dandruff, but also makes it easier for body heat to be lost through evaporative cooling. This can truly be called "invisible cold."

Countermeasure Actions

• Use a humidifier: A comfortable humidity level is about 50-60%. Use a humidifier effectively to control the humidity in your room.
• Encourage hydration: Ensure fresh water is available at all times, and try running hot water over dry food or introducing wet food.
• Moisturizing care: Use moisturizing shampoos and brushing sprays to keep the skin and coat moisturized.

Summary: Don't miss the small signs and have the best winter ever

Because our beloved dogs cannot speak, it is important for us owners to notice even the smallest changes and create the optimal environment for them. By simply being aware of three things - the room environment, creative walks, and measures to prevent dryness - you can dramatically improve your dog's winter comfort.

This winter, why not take thorough measures to protect yourself from the cold and spend more active and fun days with your beloved dog?