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[Veterinarian Supervised] Winter cold is your enemy! 3 cold weather tips for small dogs to protect them
It's getting colder and colder! 🌬️ Winter is tough for humans, but it's actually even tougher for dogs, especially small breeds that are closer to the ground. Even at home, you can't let your guard down, with cold floors and dry heating. So, in this article, the Petopop editorial team will thoroughly explain how to keep your small dog warm so that it can spend the winter comfortably!
Solution 1: Create a cozy space in your room
The first thing you need to do is take measures to protect your dog from the cold inside the house. Especially in apartments, the cold air coming up from the floor (underfloor chill) can reach your dog directly.
Use a bed or blanket
Consider the area around your dog's bed, where they spend the most time. Dome-shaped or raised beds are recommended because they keep out cold air. Simply adding a fluffy fleece or boa blanket can significantly increase the perceived temperature. 🐶💤
Prevents cold from the floor
If your pet spends a lot of time on the floor, try putting down a rug or cork mat. Be sure to put a warm mat inside the cage or playpen as well. Remember that your pet lives much closer to the ground than humans.
Solution 2: Make walks more fun! Functional cold weather clothing for small dogs
You might think, "Dogs are fine because they have fur," but single-coated dog breeds like Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Italian Greyhounds, as well as small dogs, are very susceptible to the cold. Warm clothing is essential for winter walks.
There are three points to choose from!
- Warmth: Choose warm materials such as fleece or brushed-back fabric.
- Ease of movement: Anything stiff that restricts movement is a no-no. Something with high stretch is best.
- Design: Appearance is important after all! You want to choose a piece that makes your dog look even cuter.
Petopop's items are not only cute but also functional, making them a dream come true for pet owners. Find that special piece that will make your pet look forward to walks.
Solution 3: Care from the inside out! Key points about diet and hydration
In addition to external measures, it is also important to take care of your body from the inside. In winter, the air is particularly dry, and indoors with heating on, humidity levels drop even further.
Hydrate to prevent dryness
When it gets cold, pets tend to drink less water, but lack of water can lead to dry skin and various health problems. Make sure your pet has fresh water available at all times, and if they don't drink much, encourage them to drink lukewarm water or use wet food to keep them hydrated.
Food that warms the body
It's also a good idea to top your pet with foods that have a warming effect on the body (chicken, pumpkin, etc.). However, be mindful of allergies and constitutions, and be careful not to give too much. It's also a good idea to consult your veterinarian.
What did you think? Room environment, clothing, and internal care. By simply focusing on these three points, your beloved dog will be able to spend the winter comfortably. Let's start today with what we can do for our precious family member! 💖