[Veterinarian Supervised] Winter cold is the enemy! 3 ways to keep small dogs warm

The bitterly cold winter continues in Japan. The cold weather can be a big burden not only on us humans, but also on our beloved dogs, especially small breeds. There are many things to be careful of inside the home, such as cold flooring and dry air caused by heating. For owners who are worried, "Will my dog ​​be okay?", we will introduce three cold weather measures you can start using today to keep your small dog warm.

1. Create a warm and comfortable room environment

Small dogs tend to be closer to the ground, so they feel the cold from the floor directly. Especially in rooms with hardwood floors, their bodies can get extremely cold.

• Provide a warm place to sleep: Provide a fluffy blanket or a dome-shaped bed that keeps heat in. Pet heaters and hot water bottles are also effective, but be careful not to get low-temperature burns.
• Place rugs or mats: Place rugs or cork mats in areas where your dog spends time to keep out the cold air from the floor.
• Reassess your bed location: Places near windows and doors are prone to drafts, so it's best to move your bed to the center of the room or against a wall.

2. Warm clothing is essential for winter walks!

Suddenly going from a warm room to a cold outdoor environment can lead to heat shock. Single-coated dog breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, are particularly susceptible to the cold, so clothing is important not only for fashion but also for their health.

• Choose for functionality: Look for fleece or boa lined jackets and jackets that provide ample coverage down to your stomach. On windy or snowy days, outerwear made from windproof and waterproof materials like nylon is ideal.
• Choose a size that fits your dog's body: If the size is too big, cold air will get in through the gaps, and if it's too small, it will be difficult for your dog to move and cause stress. Make sure to find a size that fits your dog's body.

Petopop's items combine design and functionality, making walks on cold days more enjoyable.

3. Often overlooked! Winter "dry skin care"

Indoors in winter tend to be very dry due to heating. Just like humans, dry air can cause dogs' skin to become dry and their paws to crack.

• Use a humidifier: Maintaining humidity levels between 50 and 60% in your room can help prevent dry skin and static electricity.
• Moisturize your dog's paws: Before and after walks, apply a moisturizing cream for pets to protect his delicate paws from dryness and the cold asphalt.
• Brushing and hydration: Regular brushing promotes good circulation, and keeping your dog hydrated from the inside out is important, as is having fresh water available at all times.

With a little ingenuity, your dog can spend the winter more comfortably and healthily. Please refer to the measures introduced here and carefully observe your dog's condition to find the perfect cold weather protection.