[Veterinarian-supervised] Protect your small dog from the dangers of winter! 3 cold weather measures you can take right now

The bitter cold of winter is upon us. We humans can't do without our coats and scarves, but are your beloved dogs, especially small breeds, properly protected from the cold?

Don't let your guard down and think, "My dog ​​is an indoor dog, so it's fine," or "He's shivering, but he seems fine..." Small dogs have a lower ability to maintain their body temperature than adult dogs, and are more susceptible to the cold from the ground, so many of them are more vulnerable to the cold than we think.

Winters in Japan can be particularly harsh for dogs, with the dry air caused by heating and cold flooring. Improper precautions can lead to hypothermia, skin problems, and poor health.

In this article, supervised by a veterinarian, we will provide an easy-to-understand explanation of three key points on "cold weather protection measures for small dogs" that you can put into practice right away, both at home and on walks.

Point 1: [Indoors] Don't rely solely on heating! Create a comfortable living environment

Winter protection starts from inside your home. It's important not only to turn up the heating, but also to create a comfortable environment for your dog.

Sleep in a warm place away from drafts

Dogs spend most of their day sleeping. First, check the location of their bed. Beds near windows or doors can let in drafts, making them cold. Try moving your dog to a quieter place, such as a corner of the room, where it won't be exposed to direct drafts.

In addition, providing your pet with a warm fleece or boa blanket or a dome-shaped bed that completely envelops the body will help keep it warm and allow it to rest in peace.

Shuts out the cold coming from the floor

Warm air rises and cold air falls. Small dogs, whose bodies are close to the ground, feel the cold from the floor directly. Simply placing a rug or cork mat in areas where your dog often spends time can make a big difference in the perceived temperature.

How to use heating appliances wisely

Air conditioners and heaters are comfortable, but caution is required. Continuous direct exposure to hot air can dry out your dog's skin and fur, causing dandruff and itching. There's also the risk of low-temperature burns. Install a guard to prevent your dog from getting too close to the heater, and use a humidifier to keep the humidity level between 40% and 60%.

Point 2: [Walk Edition] Functional clothing is essential when going out in winter!

Suddenly going from a warm room to the cold outdoors puts a lot of strain on the body. When taking your dog for a walk in the winter, be sure to make use of dog clothes.

It's not just about fashion! The importance of clothing

For small dogs, winter clothing isn't just for fashion. It also plays an important role in maintaining a proper body temperature and reducing muscle stiffness and joint strain caused by the cold. It's especially essential for short-haired, single-coated breeds (such as toy poodles, Maltese, and Chihuahuas) and senior dogs.

How to choose the material and size

When choosing, we recommend items with fleece or brushed lining for warmth, or down material that is windproof. On snowy or rainy days, water-repellent and waterproof clothing is also useful.
The important thing is to choose a size that fits your dog's body and does not restrict movement. Petopop has a wide selection of Petopop items that combine design and functionality. You're sure to find the perfect outfit for your dog.

Point 3: [Health Management] Hydration and care to be mindful of especially in winter

Countermeasures against the cold are not just about the environment and clothing. Small daily care is the key to getting through the winter in good health.

Beware of hidden dehydration! Staying hydrated in winter

In winter, dogs tend to drink less water because they are less likely to feel thirsty. However, indoors, when the heating is on, they lose moisture without even realizing it. In addition to making sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times, try adding a little warm water to their dry food or using wet food to help them get moisture from their food.

Moisturizing care to protect against dryness

Dry air also weakens the skin's barrier function. Brushing your pet frequently to promote blood circulation is effective. If dryness is particularly a concern, it's also a good idea to gently care for your pet with a moisturizing spray or cream for pets.

summary

There's nothing special about keeping small dogs warm in the cold.

• Review your room environment and create a warm and comfortable place
• Protect yourself with functional clothing when walking
• Don't neglect daily health management, such as hydration and moisturizing

By simply keeping these three points in mind, your dog will be able to spend the winter comfortably. The most important thing is for owners to keep a close eye on their pets and ask themselves if they are cold.

Take proper precautions with the right knowledge and enjoy a warm and enjoyable winter with your beloved dog!