[Veterinarian-supervised] Are cold weather measures for small dogs really okay? 3 points to protect your beloved dog from the winter cold

The cold winter is upon us. We humans can't do without our coats and scarves, but did you know that small dogs are even more susceptible to the cold? Small breeds like toy poodles, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire terriers need special care to protect them from the cold.

Even if you think, "My dog ​​is healthy, so it's fine," they may lose their energy and become ill without realizing it. In this article, we will introduce three tips for keeping small dogs warm in the cold that you can start putting into practice right away, tailored to the living environment and climate of Japan's winters.

Why do small dogs need special winter protection?

First of all, why are small dogs vulnerable to the cold? There are three main reasons.

• Easily affected by cold air from the ground: Because their bodies are small, they are closer to the ground and are directly exposed to the cold air from the asphalt and flooring.
• Difficulty maintaining body temperature: Because the body has a large surface area relative to its weight, heat tends to escape easily from the body.
• Coat type: Depending on the breed, many dogs have a "single coat" that does not have an undercoat (fur) that provides good insulation, making them more susceptible to the cold.

For these reasons, it is important for us pet owners to protect our pets from the cold.

You can start today! 3 ways to protect your dog from the cold

There's no need to overthink it. From how you spend your time at home to on walks, a little ingenuity can make a big difference in how comfortable your dog is in the winter.

Point 1: Review the areas in your room that feel cold

Let's start with the environment inside your home. Are you feeling safe because you have the heating on? In fact, dangerous "chill spots" are lurking inside your home.

You should be especially careful of drafts between hardwood floors and near windows. Check to see if your dog usually sleeps on a cold floor or near a window. Provide your dog with a fluffy bed and a warm blanket to prevent cold air from hitting his body directly. Using a heated carpet for pets is also a good idea.

Point 2: Walking is both warm and fun!

Not going for a walk just because it's cold can lead to lack of exercise and stress. Be sure to be well prepared before going for a walk in the winter.

An essential item is warm dog wear. We especially recommend designs that protect the stomach from the cold and that are made of windproof materials. Your dog will love stylish clothing that is warm and easy to move in. Petopop's items , which don't compromise on functionality or design, will make winter walks even more enjoyable.

It is also important to be flexible and adapt to the weather of the day, such as choosing a warmer time of day or shortening the course if it is too cold.

Point 3: Dryness and hydration, which are often overlooked

In winter, indoor air is drier than we think due to heating. Dry air can also cause your dog's skin to become dry and flaky, which can lead to dandruff and itching.

Use a humidifier to maintain an appropriate humidity level (50-60% is a good guideline). Also, in winter, some pets are less likely to feel thirsty and may drink less water. It's important to ensure that your pet has access to fresh water at all times, and to also try to encourage them to get hydrated through their diet, such as by giving them wet food.

Summary: Have a warm and comfortable winter with your dog

This time, we've explained three key points for keeping small dogs warm in the cold.

1. Room environment: Eliminate cold spots on your bed and blankets.
2. Winter walks: Protect your body with functional clothing and enjoy them comfortably.
3. Health care: Humidification and hydration protect your body from dryness.

With a little ingenuity and love, your beloved dog can spend the winter comfortably. Make use of today's tips to ensure your beloved family member stays healthy and happy this winter.