[Veterinarian Supervised] Japanese winters are cold for dogs! 3 tips for keeping small dogs warm

The bitterly cold winter in Japan is a season when health management is essential not only for us humans but also for our beloved dogs.

Small dogs, who are small and close to the ground, tend to be particularly susceptible to the effects of the cold. Single-coated dog breeds such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, as well as puppies and elderly dogs with little stamina, require even more care.

"My child has been shivering a lot lately..." "I feel so sorry for him because he looks so cold, but what should I do for him?"

For such owners, the Petopop editorial team will clearly explain three important points for keeping small dogs warm in Japan's living environment!

Tip 1: Rethink your room environment 🏠

It is very important to protect your pet from the cold not only when you are out for a walk, but also indoors. Especially when you are away from home, your pet may get sick when you are not looking.

Prevents cold from the floor

Warm air tends to rise and cold air tends to sink to the bottom. Small dogs often spend their time on hardwood floors, so body heat is lost through their feet. Create a warm personal space for your dog to relax in peace by providing a dog bed, blanket, or heated mat.

Be careful of dryness and maintain appropriate humidity

Air conditioners and heaters warm the air, but they also dry out the room. Dryness can cause skin problems and respiratory problems in dogs. Try to keep the humidity level between 40% and 60% by using a humidifier or hanging wet towels indoors.

Tip 2: Use functional dog wear 🧥

Some people may think, "Why wear clothes to a dog?", but for small dogs, winter dog wear is not just for fashion. It is an important item for maintaining body temperature and protecting the dog from the cold.

Choosing clothes that suit the occasion

For dogs that spend a lot of time indoors, we recommend loungewear made of lightweight fleece or knit material that is easy to move in. When going for walks, dress your dog in a windproof nylon jacket or a warm outer layer with a boa lining.

Petopop offers a wide selection of clothing that is not only warm, but also easy to move in and designed with great attention to detail. You're sure to find the perfect outfit for your beloved dog. Check out Petopop's items for more details!

Tip 3: Plan your walking time and route ☀️

Even in the cold, walks are an important way for dogs to relax. With a few simple tips, you can make winter walks safe and enjoyable.

Choose a warmer time of day

When walking your dog in winter, try to go during the warmer hours of the day when the sun is out. The temperature drops sharply in the early morning and after sunset, and the asphalt becomes very cold, which can cause pain to your dog's paws.

Don't forget to take care of yourself after you get home

When you come home from the cold outside, first gently massage your pet's cold hands and feet or wipe them with a warm towel to improve circulation. Sudden temperature changes put a strain on the heart, so it's best to let your pet's body get used to the temperature at the entrance before bringing it into a warm room.

summary

This time, we introduced three points to keep small dogs warm in the cold : 1) the room environment, 2) dog wear, and 3) tips for walking .

The most important thing is to keep a close eye on your dog and watch for signs of the cold, such as whether they're shivering or hunched over. Take proper precautions and spend a warm and enjoyable winter together with your dog!