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[Veterinarian Supervised] Don't worry about the cold winter! 3 tips to keep your small dog warm
The cold winter weather is starting to set in. While we humans can't do without our coats, our pet dogs, who are small members of our family, are actually even more sensitive to the cold. Small dogs, especially Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, can become ill in the cold.
This time, the Petopop editorial team will introduce three tips for keeping your small dog warm and happy this winter, including some tips specific to living environments in Japan! 🐶❄️
Be careful! Why are small dogs vulnerable to the cold in the first place?
There are two main reasons why small dogs are more susceptible to the cold.
- Small body size : Their body surface area is large relative to their weight, which means that body heat tends to escape easily.
- Distance from the ground : Because they are short, they are easily affected by the cold radiation cooling from the ground. Asphalt and flooring in winter are colder than you might imagine.
For these reasons, it is important for us pet owners to protect our pets from the cold.
Tip 1: Stay warm and comfortable! How to combat the cold in your room
The first thing to do is to create a comfortable environment inside the home. In particular, for dogs who spend a lot of time near the floor where cold air tends to accumulate, it's important to provide them with a dedicated space to relax.
Action Plan:
- Provide a warm place for your dog to sleep: Prepare a dome-shaped bed made of fleece or boa fabric, or a fluffy blanket, to create a place for your dog to burrow into.
- Consider the location: Place the bed in a warm area of the room, away from drafty windows and doors.
- Place a mat on the floor: Simply placing a cork mat or rug on the floor can significantly reduce the cold coming up from the floor.
Tip 2: Fashion is important! How to protect yourself from the cold while walking
Even in winter, walking is an important daily routine. However, suddenly going from a warm room to the cold outside can be a big burden for your dog. That's where dog wear comes in handy.
Action Plan:
- Choose functional clothing: Clothes for small dogs are no longer just about fashion. Choose clothing made of highly insulating materials, such as fleece-lined sweatshirts or windproof down vests. Functional clothing that prevents the dog from getting cold from the ground and keeps the body warm is especially essential. Petopop's items , which combine design and functionality, are very popular.
- Choose the time of day: It is best to go for a walk during the day when the temperature is relatively high.
Tip 3: Often overlooked? Measures against "dryness" caused by heating
Be careful not to turn the heater on full blast just because it's cold! A heated room is comfortable, but the air is very dry. Dryness can cause problems for your dog's delicate skin and respiratory system.
Action Plan:
- Use a humidifier: Use a humidifier to maintain the appropriate humidity level (50-60%). It also helps prevent static electricity.
- Encourage hydration: Make sure fresh water is available at all times.
- Be careful of burns: Be sure to install guards to prevent your dog from getting too close to heaters or stoves and suffering low-temperature burns.
Have the best winter ever with your dog with Petopop!
What did you think? With a little ingenuity, you can protect your beloved dog from the harsh winter cold. Keep him indoors, take him for walks, and take measures against dryness. By keeping these three points in mind, you can make every winter day with your dog more fun and comfortable! ❤️