[Veterinarian Supervised] What are the cold weather precautions really necessary for small dogs? 3 tips for winter walks and indoor cold weather precautions

Have you ever seen your beloved dog shivering on a winter morning and wondered, "Is he cold?" Small dogs, especially Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, are more susceptible to the cold than we humans think. The cold can even cause them to become ill.

But don't worry! With the right knowledge and precautions, you can spend winter with your beloved dog comfortably and enjoyably. In this article, the Petopop editorial team asked a veterinarian for three important tips on how to keep your small dog warm both indoors and on walks.

Why do small dogs need special winter protection?

The reason small dogs are vulnerable to the cold is due to their body structure. The smaller their body, the greater their body surface area per unit of body weight, making it easier for their body heat to escape. Also, many breeds have less subcutaneous fat to protect them from the cold, or have a single coat (no undercoat), so they feel the cold more directly.

In particular, if you notice any of the following signs, it may be your dog's way of telling you, "It's cold!"

• Shaking slightly (trembling)
• It's curled up and getting smaller
• Doesn't want to go for a walk
• Feeling less energetic or less active than usual

If you notice these signs, immediately provide a warm environment for your pet.

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

Tip 1: [Indoors] Create a warm and secure base

You might think, "It's okay because it's warm indoors," but the truth is, dangerous "cold" temperatures lurk indoors too. In particular, cold from the floors and drafts near windows are major causes of small dogs getting cold.

As a countermeasure, create a "warm base" by placing a fluffy bed or thick blanket in the area where your dog usually spends time. We recommend a bed that is slightly elevated from the floor or dome-shaped, which tend to trap heat. When placing the bed, avoid placing it near a window or door, and choose a quiet, calm place that is not directly exposed to the air conditioner's breeze.

Point 2: [Walk Edition] Don't just choose stylish clothes! Choose functional clothes

Clothing is now a necessity for small dogs when taking them for walks in the winter. This is not just for fashion. It also plays an important role in protecting their bodies from the cold air and wind and preventing a sudden drop in body temperature.

When choosing clothing, it's important to consider functionality as well as design. Ideally, the inside should be made of fleece or boa material for warmth, and the outside should be made of windproof nylon or water-repellent material. A single layer of warm outerwear is easy to put on and take off, and won't be a burden on your dog. With stylish and functional Petopop items , your dog will love winter walks.

Tip 3: [Health Care] Don't overlook winter dryness and hydration

Heated rooms tend to have dry air. This dryness can damage your dog's skin, coat, and respiratory system. Increased dandruff and dry, flaky paws are signs of dryness. Use a humidifier or hang wet towels indoors to maintain an appropriate humidity level (40-60%).

Additionally, dogs tend to drink less water in winter because they are less likely to feel thirsty. Lack of water can lead to a variety of health problems, so it's important to make sure they have fresh water available at all times. It's also effective to soften their dry food with hot water or introduce wet food. Senior dogs, in particular, have difficulty regulating their body temperature, so extra care is required.

Summary: Have a warm winter without missing your dog's signs

This time, we have narrowed down the cold weather measures for small dogs to three points.

1. Prepare a "warm base" indoors
2. Wear functional clothing when walking
3. Beware of winter's dryness and lack of moisture

The important thing is to observe your dog carefully and take measures that are appropriate for your pet. By taking the right cold weather precautions, you can make winter outings and time spent at home with your dog safer and more enjoyable.