[Veterinarian-supervised] Are you taking measures to protect your small dog from the cold? 3 tips to solve your winter worries

As the air gets colder, we can feel the arrival of winter. Just as we put on a coat when we go out, many pet owners are probably wondering, "Is this enough to protect my pet from the cold?"

Small dogs, especially those like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, tend to be more susceptible to the cold than larger breeds. Their small size and close proximity to the ground make them more susceptible to cold. However, with the right knowledge and a little ingenuity, your beloved dog can stay comfortable all winter long.

In this article, we will introduce three cold weather protection measures that you can put into practice right away, tailored to Japanese living environments and the characteristics of small dogs!

Why do small dogs need special winter protection?

You might be thinking, "I imagine dogs running around in the snow..." However, their tolerance for the cold varies greatly depending on their breed and size. There are three main reasons why small dogs are particularly susceptible to the cold.

• Body temperature drops easily: Because the body has a large surface area relative to its weight, body heat tends to escape easily.
• Vulnerable to cold from the ground: Because the body is close to the ground, it is directly affected by the cold air from the asphalt and flooring.
• Many dog ​​breeds have single coats: Many dog ​​breeds (such as toy poodles and Maltese) have no or little undercoat to protect them from the harsh cold, making them less effective at keeping out the cold.

For these reasons, we as pet owners need to provide strong support.

3 ways to keep your dog warm in the cold that you can do right now!

There's no need to overthink it. Let's take a look at some simple measures you can take both inside and outside your home.

1. Review your indoor environment! Measures to prevent cold feet

One thing that is surprisingly often overlooked is how to protect your dog from the cold indoors. Especially in the Japanese winter, even if you heat the room with an air conditioner, the cold air tends to accumulate at the bottom. Wooden floors are colder than you might imagine for your dog.

First, lay a rug or blanket in your dog's favorite spot. Providing a fluffy dog ​​bed is also a great idea. Having a warm and secure place of your own will help your dog relax both mentally and physically.

2. Wear stylish winter wear when going for a walk!

Have you ever thought, "It's so cold that my dog ​​doesn't want to go for a walk..."? However, lack of exercise is not good for your dog's health. That's when it's time to bring in some cold weather gear!

Simply putting on a warm piece of clothing can protect your pet from the cold wind and prevent its body temperature from dropping. We especially recommend items with fleece or boa lining. These days, there are many pieces of clothing that are not only functional but also highly designed. With Petopop items , walks on cold days can become fun times for you and your pet as you coordinate your outfits.

3. Winter dryness is also a big enemy! Don't forget to moisturize your skin.

The cold isn't the only problem in winter. Dry air caused by heating can also affect your dog's skin, causing dryness and dandruff.

In addition to using a humidifier to maintain the appropriate humidity level in the room, it is also effective to use a moisturizing spray or paw cream for dogs. Paws are particularly susceptible to damage when walking on cold, dry asphalt, so make it a habit to gently care for them after walks.

summary

Protecting your small dog from the cold doesn't have to be something special. Just paying a little attention to three points - indoor environment, clothing for walks, and dry care - can make a big difference in how comfortable your dog is in winter.

Let's help our beloved family members survive the winter in good health without shivering from the cold. Petopop offers a wide range of items to help your dog prepare for winter in a fun and stylish way. Be sure to check them out.