[Winter 2023] Cold Weather Measures for Small Dogs! 3 Essential Tips to Protect Your Dog from the Cold

The cold winter air is starting to bite. Just as we keep warm in stylish coats and scarves, are you taking the necessary precautions to keep your precious family member, your dog, especially a small breed, warm and protected from the cold? If you notice that your dog has been shivering a lot lately, it could be a sign of the cold.

Small dogs have a large body surface area relative to their volume, which means they lose heat easily, and because they're close to the ground, they feel the cold of the flooring directly. So, in this article, the Petopop editorial team will provide a thorough explanation of three key points on how to keep small dogs warm in Japan's living environment!

Point 1: [Indoors] Shut out the cold from your feet!

Something that is surprisingly often overlooked is how to protect your pet from the cold indoors. In particular, the flooring that is common in Japanese homes can get surprisingly cold in the winter. Don't forget that dogs live much closer to the ground than we do.

• Prepare a warm place to sleep: Prepare a fluffy, dome-shaped bed that wraps around your dog's body, or a blanket made of a highly insulating material. It's important to create a "warm sanctuary" where your dog can regulate its own body temperature.
• Lay down a rug or mat: Simply lay down a thick rug or cork mat in spaces where your dog often spends time, such as the living room, to significantly reduce the cold air coming up from the floor.
• Use a pet heater: This is useful when you are worried about leaving the air conditioner on, such as when you are away from home. Choose one made specifically for pets, which reduces the risk of low-temperature burns.

Point 2: [Walks & Indoor Wear] Choose the right "wear" for the occasion

The idea that "dogs don't need clothes" is a thing of the past. Winter clothing is an essential item, especially for single-coated dogs (breeds with no undercoat) such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, as well as senior dogs. The important thing is to choose clothes that suit the occasion.

Cold and windproof outerwear for walks on cold days

When walking on a windy day, the perceived temperature drops significantly. We recommend outerwear made of nylon that blocks the cold wind as well as warm fleece lining. For snowy or rainy days, choosing a water-repellent outerwear will make you even more comfortable.

Lightweight and warm loungewear for relaxing indoors

Even in a heated room, there can be slight drafts and temperature variations. In such cases, a lightweight fleece or T-shirt that is easy to move in and less stressful is perfect. It also has the effect of protecting your skin from drying out due to heating. Stylish and functional Petopop items will make your relaxing time at home even more special.

Tip 3: [Winter House Sitting] Safety First! Tips for not relying on heating appliances

Leaving your dog at home in the winter is one of the biggest worries for pet owners. Considering the risk of fire and the electricity bill, you probably don't want to leave the heating on. In these cases, creating a warm environment without a heater is key.

• Encourage nesting: Place your dog's favorite bed and a few blankets inside their crate or playpen. They can tuck into the blankets themselves or arrange their sleeping area however they like, keeping them cozy and warm.
• Prevent cold air from coming through the windows: Simply putting insulation sheets on the windows or closing thick curtains can significantly prevent the room temperature from dropping.
• Use a hot water bottle: A hot water bottle that can be heated in the microwave or filled with hot water is also effective. Be sure to wrap it in a towel and place it carefully to avoid low-temperature burns.

What did you think? With a little ingenuity, you can make winter with your dog more fun and warmer. Observe your dog carefully and find the best way to protect him from the cold.