[Veterinarian Supervised] Are these cold weather measures for small dogs really enough? 3 tips to protect your beloved dog from the winter cold

The cold winter air is starting to bite. Just as we keep warm with stylish coats and scarves, keeping our beloved family members warm in the cold is a major concern for owners, especially small breeds.

"My child seems to be shivering..." "He looks cold, I feel sorry for him, but I don't know what to do."

For pet owners with such concerns, the Petopop editorial team has proposed three concrete action plans to protect small dogs from the cold, taking into account the unique conditions of winter in Japan!

Why are small dogs more susceptible to the cold?

Small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Pomeranians have a harder time maintaining their body temperature than larger dogs due to their smaller size. Because they have a larger body surface area relative to their weight, heat escapes more easily and they are also more susceptible to the cold air coming from the ground. Single-coated dogs (dog breeds without undercoat) are said to be even more sensitive to the cold. Don't overlook your dog's signs and provide appropriate care.

Tip 1: Check your room for cold floors and drafts

The first thing to be careful of indoors in winter is the cold from the floor. Small dogs live much closer to the floor than we do, so they feel the cold directly from their feet.

• Review your bed and mattress: Get a soft, fluffy bed made of insulating material. Dome-shaped or enclosed beds allow your pet to warm up easily with its own body heat, giving it a sense of security.
• Choose a good location: It's important to avoid placing your bed near a window or door, where cold drafts can easily get in.
• Use heating appliances safely: Pet-specific heated carpets and heaters are also effective, but be careful to avoid low-temperature burns and accidents such as chewing on the cord. Always use them when you are supervising your pet, and always prioritize safety.

Tip 2: Make your walks more comfortable by layering your clothes wisely!

Even in the cold, walks are important times for dogs. But they can't enjoy the walk if they're shivering. In such cases, dog clothes not only look cute, but also play an important role in protecting them from the cold.

The key is to avoid getting your stomach cold . Choose clothes that are designed to provide ample coverage around your stomach. We also recommend choosing clothes with functionality in mind, such as warm fleece on the inside and windproof nylon on the outside.

Petopop's stylish and functional items are a great ally for winter walks. Find the perfect outfit for your dog and make your winter outings even more enjoyable.

Tip 3: Protect your pet's skin and paws from dryness in winter

Dryness is something that is often overlooked when it comes to winter cold prevention. The air in a heated room tends to dry out, and just like humans, your dog's skin can become dry and flaky, which can lead to dandruff and itching.

• Use a humidifier: Maintaining the right humidity level in your home will help prevent dry skin.
• Moisturizing care for your dog's paws: Walking on icy asphalt in winter can dry out and crack your dog's paws. After your walk, gently clean them with warm water and treat them with a pet moisturizing cream.
• Don't forget to stay hydrated: Some pets drink less water when it gets cold. Make sure they have fresh water available at all times and soak their dry food in hot water to encourage hydration.

Summary: Take the best measures to protect your dog from the cold while observing its condition

This time, we introduced three tips for keeping small dogs warm in the cold: indoor environment, clothing for walks, and dry care. The important thing is not to use a one-size-fits-all approach, but to tailor care to your dog's breed, age, physical condition, and personality.

This winter, be sure to protect yourself from the cold with Petopop and spend warm and happy days with your beloved dog 🐾❤️