[Veterinarian Supervised] Winter is here! The definitive guide to keeping your small dog warm in the cold.

The air has suddenly become colder, and we can feel the full force of winter approaching. When we humans feel cold, dogs, especially small dogs that are close to the ground, feel the cold even more.

Small dogs tend to lose body temperature easily, and the cold can put a great strain on their bodies. However, with the right knowledge and precautions, you can spend winter with your beloved dog in comfort and enjoyment. In this article, Petopop will introduce three important cold weather protection measures you can take right now to suit the winter environment in Japan!

Indoor measures: Recommendations for building a warm nest

You might think, "It's cold outside, so I'll be safe indoors." But the truth is, even indoors, there are lurking dangers of the cold, such as cold flooring and drafts through windows. Single-coated dog breeds like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles are particularly vulnerable to the cold, so you need to be careful.

First, create a "warm safety zone" where your dog can relax in peace. We recommend placing a fluffy blanket or a thick bed in a corner of the room or against a wall, where it won't be directly exposed to drafts. Also, air heated by a heater tends to accumulate at the top. Using a fan to circulate the air is also effective in preventing cold feet.

For relaxing indoors or on slightly chilly mornings and evenings, it's a good idea to dress your dog in light, easy-to-move-in loungewear. For example, stylish and functional Petopop items gently wrap your dog in comfort, making indoor time even more comfortable.

Things to keep in mind when walking: Protect from sudden temperature changes

Walks are an important part of daily routines, even in winter. However, just like humans, dogs can go through heat shock when suddenly going from a warm indoor environment to the cold outdoors. Before going for a walk, let your dog get used to the outside air for a bit at the front door.

When taking your dog for a walk, functional cold weather clothing is essential. Choose a jacket made of windproof material or warm clothing with fleece lining. It is especially important to choose a relatively warm time of day and keep the walk short.

Also, don't forget to use dog boots and protective cream to protect your dog's paws from cold asphalt or snowy roads. When you come back from a walk, make sure to dry your dog's wet body thoroughly and wipe its paws with a warm towel.

Preventing dryness: Skin care that is often overlooked

The cold isn't the only problem in winter. The air in a heated room is very dry, which can make your dog's skin dry. Dry skin can cause dandruff and itching, which can lead to scratching and dermatitis.

To prevent this, it is important to first manage the humidity in your room. Use a humidifier and try to keep the humidity at around 50% to 60%. Simply hanging wet towels indoors can also be effective.

External care is also important. Choose a shampoo with high moisturizing ingredients and be careful not to overwash. It is also recommended to use a moisturizing dog spray after walks or when brushing your dog. Healthy skin and coat act as a natural barrier to protect the body from the cold.

With a little ingenuity, your beloved dog can spend the winter comfortably. Petopop supports you and your beloved dog to stay warm, stylish, and create the best memories this winter. Why not start preparing for winter that is perfect for your dog?