[Veterinarian Supervised] Is Cold Weather Protection for Small Dogs Really Necessary? 3 Tips to Protect Your Dog from the Winter Cold

The cold winter air is starting to bite. Winter is a dangerous season not only for us humans, but also for our small family members, especially small dogs , who are prone to getting sick. You might think, "My dog ​​has hair, so it's fine," but in fact, single-coated dog breeds like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, and small dogs that live close to the ground, are more susceptible to the cold than we think.

In this article, we will focus on keeping small dogs warm and introduce three effective ways to protect your dog from the cold that you can start using right away, both inside and outside the home.

Countermeasure 1: Review your room environment! "Coldness" starts from your feet

One thing that is surprisingly often overlooked is how to protect yourself from the cold indoors . The flooring that is common in Japanese homes can get surprisingly cold in the winter. Small dogs that spend their time close to the ground tend to lose body heat through their feet.

• Place a mat or rug: Place a warm mat or rug in the area where your dog usually spends time. Providing a special pet bed and blanket is also effective.
• Check for drafts: Areas near windows and doors are "cold spots" where drafts can easily get in. Try moving your pet's bed or relocating it.
• Distance from heating appliances: Heaters and kotatsu tables can cause low-temperature burns. Install a fence to prevent your dog from coming into direct contact with them, and make sure your dog doesn't sleep in the same place for long periods of time.

Countermeasure 2: When taking a walk in winter, the key is "time" and "clothing"!

Even in the cold, walks are important times for dogs. However, walking in the winter without proper precautions is a no-no. Small dogs, in particular, can shiver in the cold.

• Choose a warm time of day: It is best to take your dog for a walk during the daytime (11am-2pm) when the temperature is at its hottest. Avoid early mornings and nighttime when it gets very cold.
• Regulating body temperature with clothing: Warm clothing is essential for keeping small dogs warm . It's important to choose clothing that suits the weather, such as a windproof windbreaker for windy days and a water-repellent outer layer for snowy or rainy days. Petopop offers a wide selection of Petopop items that combine design and functionality. You're sure to find the perfect outfit for your beloved dog.
• Paw care: Dog boots and wax are also effective in protecting your dog's paws from cold asphalt and, in some areas, de-icing agents.

Solution 3: Winter dryness and health care, which are often overlooked

Winter isn't just about the cold. Dry indoor air caused by heating can also affect your dog's skin, coat, and respiratory system.

• Maintain humidity with a humidifier: Just like humans, the ideal humidity level for dogs is said to be 50-60%. Use a humidifier effectively to prevent skin problems caused by dryness.
• Don't forget to stay hydrated: In winter, pets are less likely to feel thirsty and tend to drink less water. Make sure your pet has fresh water available at all times, and try to get more moisture from food by slightly soaking dry food in hot water.
• Don't ignore the signs of cold: If your dog starts shivering, curls up and doesn't want to move, or doesn't want to go for walks, these may be signs that he's feeling cold. The best way to protect your dog from the cold is to carefully observe his behavior.

summary

To ensure your beloved dog spends the winter safely and comfortably, three points are extremely important: 1) maintaining the indoor environment, 2) clothing and times for walks, and 3) measures to prevent dryness and health checks. With a little ingenuity, you can make winter with your dog more enjoyable and warmer. So, why not start today with what you can do?