[Veterinarian Supervised] Winter cold is your enemy! 3 ways to keep your small dog warm

As winter approaches, we start to worry about the health of not only us humans, but also our beloved dogs, especially our small breeds. 🐶❄️

"My child seems to be shaking..."
"The floor is so cold, he won't get off the sofa..."

Many pet owners are probably concerned about this. Winter in Japan can be a harsh environment for small dogs, with cold floors, drafts, and dry air caused by heating.

So this time, under the supervision of a veterinarian, the Petopop editorial team will introduce three key tips for keeping small dogs warm in the cold that anyone can start putting into practice today!

Solution 1: Update your room environment to a "cozy" one! 🏠

The first thing to consider is the room environment your dog spends most of its time in. Small dogs, in particular, tend to be closer to the ground and are more susceptible to the cold coming from the floor (ground chill).

• Relocate your pet's bed: Places near windows or doors are prone to drafts, so move the bed to the center of the room or a warmer spot.
• Add warming materials: Simply placing a rug or carpet on a cold floor can be effective. Adding a fluffy blanket or a pet heating mat to the bed will create a special "snuggle spot" just for your dog.
• Maintain appropriate room temperature and humidity: When using heating, it is ideal to keep the room temperature at around 20-25°C. As we will discuss later, don't forget to take measures to prevent dryness.

Solution 2: Clothes have more important roles than just being fashionable 👕

Do you think dogs don't need clothes? For single-coated dog breeds with little hair (such as toy poodles and Maltese), senior dogs, and puppies, winter clothes are extremely important for protecting them from the cold.

Simply dressing your dog in a single layer can help prevent a drop in body temperature, not only when you're out for a walk, but also when you're spending time in an unheated room. The key is to choose a warm, easy-to-move-in material, such as fleece, knitwear, or a down-style jacket. Petopop offers a wide range of items that combine design and functionality. Find the perfect piece for your dog and help them maintain their health and winter fashion at the same time!

Solution 3: Often overlooked! Winter "dryness" and "hydration" 💧

Another major enemy in winter is dryness. Heating appliances such as air conditioners remove moisture from the air, making rooms dry.

Dry air can also dry out your dog's skin, causing dandruff and itching. It is also said that dry mucous membranes in the throat and nose can make your dog more susceptible to viral infections.

• Use a humidifier: Just like humans, it is important to use a humidifier to maintain the appropriate humidity level (40-60% is a good guideline).
• Frequent hydration: Dogs tend to drink less water in winter than in summer. Make sure fresh water is available at all times, and for dogs that don't drink much, it's effective to give them lukewarm water or soften their food a little to help them stay hydrated.

summary

What do you think? To protect your beloved dog from the cold in winter,

1. Creating a room environment
2. Use of warm clothes
3. Consideration of dryness and hydration

These three points are the key. With a little ingenuity, your dog will be able to spend the winter more comfortably. Petopop will continue to provide information and items that will make the daily lives of owners and their beloved dogs more enjoyable and fulfilling.