Are you taking the right measures to protect your small dog from the cold? 3 tips to prevent your dog from shivering in the winter
Have you ever been worried when you saw your beloved dog shivering on a winter morning? The cold winter weather can be a big burden for small dogs, who live closer to the ground than humans and have difficulty maintaining their body temperature. It's actually a big misconception that "dogs are fine because they have fur." Especially in the Japanese winter, there are many things to be careful of, such as cold floors and dryness caused by heating, even indoors.
Hello! I'm Miki, editor-in-chief of Petopop. In this article, I'll be explaining in detail three tips you can start putting into practice today on how to keep your precious family member warm and comfortable during the winter.
Tip 1: Review your room environment! "Indoor measures"
One thing that is surprisingly often overlooked is how to protect your pet from the cold indoors. Small dogs, in particular, spend a lot of time near the floor where cold air tends to accumulate, so they feel the cold more than their owners realize.
Create a comfortable sleeping space and block out drafts
Rooms near windows and doors allow drafts to easily get in and rob your dog of body heat. We recommend moving the bed to the center of the room or against a wall and providing a dome-shaped bed or fleece blanket. Placing a pet heater under the blanket is also effective for dogs that are sensitive to the cold.
Prevents flooring from getting cold
In winter, flooring feels like ice. Sitting or lying directly on it can cause your dog's stomach to get cold and become ill. Place joint mats or thick rugs in areas where your dog spends a lot of time. This alone will help reduce the strain on their legs and hips.
Tip 2: Preparation is 90% of winter walks! "Things to keep in mind when walking"
For energetic dogs, walks are an essential part of their daily routine, even in winter. However, the temperature difference between inside and outside can put a lot of strain on their bodies. Be sure to prepare well and enjoy your walks safely.
Warm dog winter clothes are a must-have item
Some people may think, "Dogs don't deserve clothes..." but for small dogs, winter clothing isn't just fashion, it's an important item for protecting their lives. We especially recommend clothing made from fleece, which retains heat, or nylon, which blocks wind. Water-repellent and waterproof clothing is also an added bonus, as it can handle sudden snow or rain. Petopop's items combine functionality and style, making winter walks even more enjoyable.
Choose the "time" and "course" for your walk
If possible, it's best to go for a walk during the day when the temperature is at its highest. Choose a warm time of day when the sun is out and walk on a sunny path. It's best to avoid the cold hours of after sunset or early morning.
Tip 3: Take care of the parts you can't see! "Winter Health Management"
Protecting your dog from the cold isn't just about keeping them warm. It's also important to provide thorough care to protect your dog from winter-specific problems.
Dry skin caused by heating and paw care
Heated rooms are comfortable, but the air tends to be dry. This can affect your dog's skin as well, causing dandruff and itching. Use a humidifier and choose a moisturizing dog shampoo to help keep your dog's skin moisturized. Also, cold winter asphalt can dry out their paws and cause them to crack. After a walk, don't forget to gently cleanse them with lukewarm water and moisturize them with paw cream.
Hydration and dietary tips
In winter, dogs tend to drink less water because they are less likely to feel thirsty. Try warming the water a little to enhance its flavor, or incorporating wet food into your dog's diet to help them naturally hydrate. Also, shivering in the cold actually burns a surprising amount of calories. One way to help is to monitor your dog's condition and, if necessary, consult with your veterinarian and adjust the amount of food they eat.
summary
There are three key points to keeping small dogs warm in the cold: creating an indoor environment, preparing for walks, and winter-specific health care. With a little ingenuity and love from you, winter can be more fun and safer for your dog. Please use the points introduced here as a reference and start taking precautions today.