[Veterinarian Supervised] Winter cold is your dog's biggest enemy! 3 ways to keep your small dog warm

The bitterly cold winter continues in Japan. Winter is a season when not only humans but also our beloved family members, dogs, are prone to getting sick. Did you know that small dogs, who are small and live closer to the ground, are particularly susceptible to the effects of the cold?

"My dog ​​seems a bit listless lately..." "I wonder if he's okay with the cold floor?" To help alleviate the worries of such pet owners, Petopop has brought you three tips for keeping small dogs warm in the cold that you can start putting into practice right away.

Why is winter protection especially important for small dogs?

There are three main reasons why small dogs are vulnerable to the cold.

• Difficulty retaining heat: Because the body has a large surface area relative to its weight, body heat easily escapes.
• Cold air from the ground: Because your body is close to the ground, you are more likely to feel the cold directly from the concrete or flooring.
• Coat type: Many breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, do not have an undercoat that provides excellent insulation.

For these reasons, proper winterization is essential to keeping your dog comfortable during the winter.

Start today! 3 tips for keeping your small dog warm in the cold

[1. Indoors] Don't rely solely on heating! Creating a comfortable "room" environment

When it comes to indoor winter measures, you need to be careful of the dry air caused by heating and the cold coming from the feet. In addition to turning up the heating, try to create an environment that is considerate to your dog.

• Prepare a warm sleeping area: Place a fluffy bed and blanket in a draft-free corner of the room. Dome-shaped beds are especially recommended as they tend to trap heat.
• Use mats and carpets: Simply laying a highly insulating mat or carpet on top of cold flooring can significantly reduce the coldness from your feet.
• Maintain proper humidity: In rooms that tend to be dry due to heating, use a humidifier to maintain humidity levels between 40% and 60%. This helps prevent dry skin, dry coat, and respiratory problems.

[2. Walking] A complete guide to winter outings that combines style and functionality!

You might think, "It's cold, so I'll keep my walks short..." but lack of exercise can also cause stress. Take proper precautions and enjoy your winter walks!

• Dog clothes are a must-have item: Winter dog clothes are no longer just about fashion. They also play an important role in protecting your dog's body from cold wind and snow and preventing it from losing heat. We recommend clothes with fleece lining or windproof nylon. For example, Petopop offers a wide selection of items that are both functional and stylish.
• Choose the right time: It's best to take your dog for a walk during the day when the temperature is relatively high. Avoid early mornings and nights when it's very cold.
• Paw care: Cold asphalt can be hard on your dog's paws. Apply moisturizing cream before and after walks to prevent cracks.

[3. Health Management] Warm yourself from the inside out! Diet and care tips

In addition to external protection, it's also important to take care of your dog's body from the inside. With a little ingenuity, you can keep your dog in good condition for the winter.

• Encourage hydration: When it gets cold, your pet may drink less water. Make sure fresh water is always available and that it is slightly warm to encourage your pet to drink.
• Brushing promotes blood circulation: Regular brushing not only keeps the air layer in the coat, improving insulation, but also promotes blood circulation in the skin.
• Dietary management: Dogs may use more energy than usual to cope with the cold. However, if they are less active indoors, this can actually make them more likely to gain weight. Monitor your dog's condition and adjust the amount of food they eat, if necessary, by consulting your veterinarian.

summary

When it comes to keeping small dogs warm, it's important to strike a balance between three things: indoor environment, planning walks, and daily health care. Don't overlook the small signs your dog gives you, and support them so they can get through the cold winter in good health and comfort. With the right knowledge and a little ingenuity, winter can be a wonderful season that deepens the bond between you and your dog.