[Veterinarian-supervised] Cold weather protection for small dogs! 3 points to keep in mind when leaving your dog at home or walking him in the winter

The cold wind is blowing, and we can hear the footsteps of winter approaching. Just as we put on our favorite coats, it is essential to prepare for winter for our beloved dogs, especially small breeds that are sensitive to the cold.

"My child seems to be shaking..."
"Is the cold flooring okay?"
"The heating is drying out the air and it's making my skin itchy..."

To help alleviate such concerns for pet owners, the Petopop editorial team, under the supervision of a veterinarian, has narrowed down to three actionable tips for keeping small dogs warm in Japan's living environment!

Tip 1: Don't rely solely on heating! Avoid cold spots indoors!

We tend to think that rooms are warm in the winter because of heating, but in fact, there are many "cold spots" lurking in a dog's line of sight. Small dogs, in particular, are close to the ground, so they are directly affected by the cold air coming up from the floor (chills from the floor).

Specific measures:

• Keep out the cold air from the floor: Place rugs or cork mats on the floor, even just in your dog's favorite spots.
• Prepare a warm place to sleep: Create a dome-shaped bed or fluffy blanket that traps warm air and gives your dog its own "refuge." This is especially recommended for dogs that like to burrow.
• Avoid windows: Windows are cool due to the cold air outside, so please place your pet's cage and bed a little away from windows.

If you raise the temperature of the entire room too much, you run the risk of "heat shock," where the temperature difference between warm and cold areas puts strain on the body. It's important to find ways to stay warm in specific areas.

Tip 2: Winter walks should be "short, fun, and warm"❄️

Many dogs love to go for walks even in the cold. However, shivering in the cold can be a painful experience for dogs. When taking your dog for a walk in the winter, make sure to prioritize warmth.

Specific measures:

• Dog wear is a must-have item: Warm dog wear is a winter necessity to protect your dog's body from the cold air and the ground. We especially recommend designs that protect the stomach. Petopop's items are not only stylish, but also offer ease of movement and are made with high-quality materials, so your dog can enjoy fashion and comfort at the same time.
• Choose a warm time of day: Take your dog for a walk during the day when temperatures are relatively high (the warmest time of the day). It is best to avoid the cold early mornings and evenings.
• Paw care: Cold asphalt and dryness can cause your dog's paws to crack. After a walk, gently clean them with warm water and treat them with a moisturizing cream.

Tip 3: Stay safe while you're away! Temperature control and dry care 💧

It is especially important to create a comfortable environment for your dog when you are away from home. If you leave the air conditioner on, you need to be especially careful about the temperature setting and the "dryness" of the air.

Specific measures:

• Keep your heating on and maintain a constant temperature: Rather than repeatedly turning it on and off using a timer, leaving it on at a lower temperature (around 20-23°C is a good guideline) prevents sudden temperature changes and puts less strain on your body.
• Add moisture with a humidifier: Heating can dramatically dry out the air, causing skin problems and respiratory issues. Try to keep the humidity level between 40-60% by using a humidifier or hanging out wet towels.
• Beware of low-temperature burns: When using a heated carpet or heater, be careful not to let your dog stay in the same place for a long time, which can lead to "low-temperature burns." Make sure your dog is able to move freely between warm and cool areas.

The cold winter weather can be tough for small dogs, but with a little ingenuity on your part, your beloved dog can stay comfortable and healthy throughout the winter. Please observe your dog carefully and find the best cold weather protection measures for your pet.

Petopop supports your pet life by providing items that will make winter more fun and warmer for both you and your beloved dog ❤️