[Veterinarian-supervised] Are you really taking measures to keep your small dog warm in the cold? 3 tips to solve your winter worries

Shivering...! Have you ever seen your beloved dog curled up in a ball, looking cold, and wondered, "Is my dog ​​sensitive to the cold?" Small dogs , especially those like Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Miniature Dachshunds, are close to the ground and have trouble maintaining body heat. The cold of winter puts a greater strain on them than we might think.

The saying "Dogs are like the wind and the snow" is a thing of the past. Especially in Japan's winter, there are many factors both indoors and outdoors that threaten your dog's health, such as cold floors and dry air caused by heating. So, in this article, the Petopop editorial team will thoroughly explain three key points for keeping small dogs warm and comfortable during the winter!

Tip 1: [Indoors] Reconsider the "chilliness" in your room

One thing that is surprisingly often overlooked is how to protect your dog from the cold indoors. Many homes turn off the heating, especially when you're away from home. The key to protecting your dog from the cold indoors is to provide a place where he can warm himself.

• Provide a warm sleeping area : Place your dog's bed in a draft-free corner of the room and add a fluffy blanket or a heated pet mat. Simply blocking out the cold air from the floor can make a big difference in how the temperature feels.
• Comfortable loungewear : A room that is too heated can cause dry skin. It is recommended to reduce the heating and dress your dog in light, easy-to-move-in loungewear instead. This will help regulate body temperature and prevent skin problems caused by dryness.

Tip 2: [Walk Edition] "Winter dog clothes" are a must-have item!

Even in the cold, walks are important times for dogs. However, if your dog suddenly goes from a warm room to the cold outdoors, there's a risk of heat shock. When walking in the winter, make sure your dog is protected with clothing that combines fashion and functionality.

The key is to choose clothes that are warm with fleece or boa material on the inside and windproof on the outside. Ideally, a design that fully covers the stomach area where the heart and internal organs are located is especially ideal. If you're not sure what clothes to choose, be sure to check out Petopop's items, which are both stylish and functional. You're sure to find something you love!

Another thing to keep in mind when walking your dog in winter is the time of day. Try to take your dog for a walk during the day when the sun is warm.

Tip 3: [Health Management] Beware of dryness and signs of dog shivering

In winter, we not only have to deal with the cold, but also with dryness. The air in a heated room is dry, which can affect your dog's skin and respiratory system.

• Stay hydrated with a humidifier : Use a humidifier to keep the humidity in your home between 40% and 60%. This will help protect your dog's delicate skin and coat from dryness.
• Don't overlook signs that your dog is cold : Dogs can't speak. Shivering is the most obvious sign that your dog is cold. Other changes to look out for include your dog curling up, not wanting to go for walks, or appearing less energetic than usual. It's important to observe your dog's behavior carefully and take action immediately.

With the right cold weather protection for small dogs , you can make winter more enjoyable and comfortable for your beloved dog. Spending time snuggled up in a warm room with your dog dressed in cute winter clothes is sure to be the ultimate soothing experience for you as well ❤️