[Veterinarian Supervised] Now you can rest assured! 3 tips for keeping your small dog warm in the cold that will delight your beloved pet

The bitterly cold winter in Japan continues. Winter is a season when not only humans but also our beloved family members, dogs, are prone to getting sick. Small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Pomeranians are particularly susceptible to the effects of the cold due to their small size and close proximity to the ground.

"My pet seems a bit listless lately..." "He just curls up on the cold floor..." Many pet owners probably have these kinds of worries.

This time, the Petopop editorial team will thoroughly explain three key points for keeping small dogs warm in winter, tailored to the living environment in Japan. With these simple ideas you can start putting into practice right away, you can spend a warm and comfortable winter with your beloved dog!

Tip 1: Create a warm sanctuary in your room

The biggest enemies indoors in winter are drafts through the windows and the cold flooring that creeps up through your feet. For small dogs that are sensitive to the cold, create a warm sanctuary in your room where they can feel completely safe.

• Reassess the bed location: Place your dog's bed and blanket away from windows, doors, and other areas where cold air can get in. A corner of the room or next to your couch is recommended.
• Add warmth: Simply adding a warm fleece or boa blanket can make a big difference in how warm your pet feels. Using a pet heated carpet or hot water bottle is also a good idea, but be careful not to get low-temperature burns.
• Enclose the cage or playpen: Covering the entire cage with a blanket or cover will keep out cold air and increase heat retention.

Providing a warm place for your dog to escape to at any time will help them feel safe and relaxed.

Point 2: Keep your walks short, warm, and fun

Walking is an important daily routine even in winter, but the temperature difference between inside and outside puts a great strain on your dog's body. In particular, cold asphalt can cause pain to their paws. Winter walks require special consideration.

• Make it a habit to wear them: Winter clothes are a must for small dogs. Dress them in fleece to keep them warm or nylon to keep out the cold wind. With warm and stylish Petopop items , your dog will be happy to go for walks.
• Tips for walking: Try to go for a walk during the day when the sun is as warm as possible (around 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM). It is wise to avoid extremely cold times such as early morning or night.
• Don't forget to look after your dog's paws: Applying paw cream before and after walks will help protect their delicate paws from drying out and cracking.

Point 3: Dryness and hydration, which are often overlooked

Heating appliances such as air conditioners and heaters can warm a room, but they also dry out the air, which can cause skin and coat problems and even respiratory problems for dogs.

• Stay hydrated with a humidifier: Ideally, indoor humidity should be kept between 50% and 60%. Use a humidifier effectively to maintain a comfortable humidity level.
• Encourage hydration: In winter, dogs are less likely to feel thirsty and tend to drink less water. Encourage hydration by making sure they have fresh water available at all times, as well as by providing lukewarm water and feeding them wet food.
• Brushing frequently: Brushing promotes blood circulation and helps maintain healthy skin. Brushing gently is also a way to communicate with your dog.

summary

There are three basic ways to protect small dogs from the cold: creating a good indoor environment, planning walks, and taking measures to prevent dryness. With a little ingenuity and love, you can protect your beloved dog from the cold of winter. Observe your dog carefully and find the best measures that suit him.

Petopop offers a wide range of stylish and functional items to make winter more fun and comfortable for you and your dog. Find your favorite piece and create special winter memories.