[Definitive Edition] 3 Tips for Keeping Small Dogs Warm Against the Cold

When winter footsteps arrive, dog owners start to wonder, "Is my dog ​​cold?" Small dogs, especially those who are small and live close to the ground, are more susceptible to the cold than we think. Cold flooring and the dry winter air can be a big burden for dogs.

But don't worry! With a little ingenuity, you can protect your beloved dog from the cold of winter. In this article, we'll introduce three tips carefully selected by the Petopop editorial team for "cold weather protection for small dogs" that you can start putting into practice right away.

Why do small dogs need cold weather protection?

Small dogs have less fat to maintain their body temperature than larger dogs, and their body surface area per unit weight is larger, meaning that heat escapes more easily. They're also more susceptible to the cold air (radiant heat) from the ground, so they get cold quickly on winter walks or in unheated rooms. Be especially careful with the hardwood floors that are common in Japanese homes, as they can get extremely cold in the winter!

You can start today! 3 tips for keeping your small dog warm in the cold

1. Review your room environment 🏠

Start with the environment inside your home. Update the place where your dog spends most of their time to be winter-ready.

• Ensure a warm place to sleep: Prepare a fluffy blanket or a dome-shaped bed that will completely wrap your body. We also recommend a slightly elevated bed that will block out the cold air from the floor.
• Be careful about where you place it: Avoid placing the bed near a window or door, or anywhere that drafts can easily get in. Creating a "cozy spot just for your dog" in the warm center of the room will help them feel safe.
• Use mats or carpets: Simply placing a mat or carpet in your dog's area can significantly reduce the cold coming from the floor.

2. Warm clothing is a must when going for a walk! 🐕

Walking is an important daily routine, even in winter. However, suddenly going from a warm room to the cold outdoors can put a lot of strain on your dog's body. That's why cold weather clothing is an essential item for walks.

Simply dressing your baby in a warm piece of clothing made from windproof material or with fleece or boa lining will effectively prevent their body temperature from dropping. With stylish and functional Petopop items , going out on cold days will surely be fun.

Also, the dry winter air and cold asphalt can cause cracked paws, so be sure to apply moisturizing cream before and after walks.

3. Warm yourself from the inside out! Eat and drink plenty of water!

Food and hydration are two things that are often overlooked. In fact, just like humans, dogs consume a lot of energy in winter to maintain their body temperature.

• Dietary management: Increase the amount of food a little more than usual, or top it with ingredients that have a warming effect on the body (such as a small amount of pumpkin or sweet potato) to help replenish energy.
• Hydration: Because the air is dry in winter, it's easy to become dehydrated without realizing it. Make sure your pet has fresh water available at all times, and if they're drinking less, it's a good idea to give them lukewarm water or wet food.

summary

When it comes to keeping small dogs warm in the cold, it's important to focus on three key points: 1) the room environment, 2) clothing for walks, and 3) food and water. With a little attention from you, your dog can stay comfortable and healthy all winter long. Be sure to use this as a reference for preparing for winter this year!