[Veterinarian Supervised] Are Cold Weather Protection Measures for Small Dogs Really Enough? 3 Essential Techniques for Indoors and on Walks

The cold winter weather is starting to set in. When we humans feel cold, our small dogs actually feel it even more. Especially for small dogs that live close to the ground, Japanese winters are harsher than you might imagine.

"My dog ​​is shivering..." "Is my dog ​​cold when I'm home alone?" "I want to dress him up, but he hates clothes ..." I'm sure there are many pet owners who have these kinds of concerns.

So, in this article, the Petopop editorial team asked a veterinarian for three tips on how to keep your small dog warm and cozy this winter.

1. Creating a warm zone indoors is the most important thing!

Something that is surprisingly often overlooked is how to protect your dog from the cold indoors . Even with the heater on, warm air tends to accumulate at the top. This means that cold air often stagnates near the floor where your dog is.

point:

• Elevate your bed: To prevent heat loss directly from the cold floor, choose a slightly elevated bed or use a few extra blankets.
• Check for drafts: Avoid placing your dog's bed near a window or door and make sure it is not exposed to direct drafts.
• A safe "snow dome" bed: Prepare a dome-shaped bed that completely encases your pet's body or a fluffy blanket to create a "warm zone" that they can crawl into at any time. A heated carpet for pets is also effective, but be careful to avoid low-temperature burns.

Recently, light, easy-to-move-in loungewear that can be worn indoors and relaxed has become popular. We recommend starting with Petopop items , which are made from soft materials that are easy to wear even for children who don't like wearing clothes.

2. The key to walking your dog in winter is preparation and time saving

Even in the cold, walks are important times for dogs. However, the temperature difference between inside and outside can put a lot of strain on their bodies. Make sure to prepare your dog properly for winter walks to ensure they are comfortable.

point:

• Aim for a warm daytime walk: It's best to take your dog for a walk during the relatively warm days (around 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM). Avoid the extremely cold early mornings and nighttime hours.
• Use functional clothing: It's a good idea to have a piece of functional clothing that will protect your dog not only from the cold, but also from cold wind, rain, and snow. The trick is to gradually get your dog used to wearing it by giving him treats rather than suddenly putting it on. Start with a sleeveless vest.
• Don't forget to take care of your dog's paws: Cold asphalt can damage their paws, so apply a moisturizing paw cream before and after walks.

3. Protect your health with measures to prevent dryness that are often overlooked

Indoor air in winter can be surprisingly dry due to heating, and this dryness can affect your dog's skin, coat, and even their respiratory system.

point:

• Use a humidifier effectively: Ideally, place a humidifier in the living room, where your dog spends most of its time, and keep the humidity at 50% to 60%.
• Encourage hydration: Always have fresh water available. Sprinkling a little warm water on dry food will also help keep your pet hydrated.
• Brushing improves circulation: Regular brushing improves blood circulation to the skin, helping to maintain a healthy coat. It's also a good opportunity to check the condition of the skin.

How was it?
A little ingenuity can make a big difference in how comfortable your dog is in winter. Observe your dog carefully and find the best winter protection for your small dog .

Petopop offers a wide range of stylish and functional items to help you spend the cold winter in style and comfort. We hope this winter will be even happier for you and your beloved dog.