For your dog who is sensitive to the cold. 3 ways to keep your small dog warm during the Japanese winter!

I'm Miki, editor-in-chief of Petopop.

The cold winds are starting to blow, signaling the arrival of winter. Just as we take our favorite coats out of the closet, it's time to start making special winter preparations for our beloved family members, especially small breeds.

Small dogs live closer to the ground, making them more susceptible to cold air and making it harder for them to maintain their body temperature. The living environment in Japan can be tough for dogs, with cold flooring and the drafts that can be common in apartment buildings. But don't worry! With a little ingenuity, your dog can stay warm and comfortable this winter.

This time, we will introduce three tips for keeping small dogs warm in the cold that anyone can put into practice right away.

1. Organize your room environment for peace of mind while you're away!

The first thing to consider is the indoor environment your dog spends most of its time in. Especially when you're away from home, it's important to provide a safe and warm place for your dog, as you can't keep an eye on them.

• Review the location of your dog's bed: Avoid placing your dog's bed or house near a window or door where cold air can easily get in, and move it to a warmer part of the room.
• Add warmth: A fleece blanket or a thick pet bed can make your pet feel warmer. Placing a mat under the bed can also help keep out the cold air from the floor.
• A word of caution when using heating appliances: When using air conditioners or heaters, don't set the temperature too high, and use a humidifier to prevent the air from becoming too dry. Also, heated carpets and heaters pose a risk of "low-temperature burns," so be careful not to let your dog come into direct contact with them for long periods of time.

Just by keeping these points in mind, you'll have much less to worry about leaving your dog home alone in the winter.

2. It's not just fashionable! Keep warm with functional clothing

Some people may think, "Why wear clothes to a dog?", but for small dogs, winter clothing is not just a fashionable item. It is also an important piece of functional clothing that protects them from the cold.

When walking, outerwear is essential to protect your dog from the cold wind and the ground. Even indoors, for dogs who don't like overheated rooms or senior dogs, you can help regulate their body temperature by dressing them in a thin fleece or T-shirt.

The key points to consider when choosing are ease of movement and the material. A tight design can cause stress, and it's also important to choose a material that doesn't generate static electricity. Find the perfect piece for your dog that's warm and easy to move in. Petopop's items are popular, combining design and functionality for warmth and ease of movement.

3. Surprisingly easy to overlook: "Winter dry skin and moisturizing care"

Dryness is often overlooked when it comes to winter cold prevention. The air in a heated room is drier than we think. This dryness can affect your dog's skin, coat, and even their precious paws.

• Prevent dry skin: Use a humidifier to maintain the appropriate humidity level in the room. We also recommend using a moisturizing spray when brushing. This will help prevent static electricity and keep your pet's coat looking beautiful.
• Paw care: The cold, dry asphalt in winter can cause your dog's paws to crack. Before and after walks, apply pet paw cream and gently massage in to moisturize.

A little care can help protect your dog from hidden winter troubles.

How was it?
By simply being aware of three points - indoor environment, appropriate clothing, and moisturizing care - your dog's winter life will be more comfortable. Please take loving measures to protect your precious family member from the cold so that they can survive the winter in good health.