[Veterinarian Recommended] Before your dog starts shivering! 3 Latest Cold Weather Tips for Small Dogs

Recently, the number of cold days has increased. On days when we humans feel cold, the environment may be even more harsh for small dogs that are small and close to the ground.

"Is it okay to leave the heater on when I leave my dog ​​at home alone in the winter?" "What clothes should I choose for my dog ​​when I go for walks?" To help answer these questions, the Petopop editorial team will thoroughly explain three important points to keep your small dog warm in the cold !

Why do small dogs need special winter protection?

Small dogs such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Miniature Dachshunds have a larger body surface area to volume ratio than larger dogs, which means they tend to lose heat more easily and lose body temperature more easily. In particular, the cold from the hardwood floors that are common in Japanese living environments and drafts from windows are their biggest enemies. Armed with the right knowledge, we can help keep your dog warm and comfortable this winter.

Point 1: Creating a warm environment in your room

The first thing to consider is the room environment where your dog spends most of its time. Of course, you can use a heater, but there are many other things you can do to make it more comfortable.

• Shut out the cold from the floor: Place a rug or insulating mat under your dog's bed or cage. This alone will greatly reduce the cold coming from the floor.
• Reconsider the location of your bed: Places near windows or doors are prone to drafts. Try moving your bed to the center of the room or against a wall. A dome-shaped bed that completely encases your body is also recommended.
• Caution with heating appliances: When using air conditioners or heaters, be careful of dryness and low-temperature burns ! Use a humidifier in combination with the heater, and take measures to prevent your dog from being exposed to direct heat for long periods of time. Don't forget to make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times.

Point 2: Smartly regulate your body temperature with your clothes

The idea that "dogs don't need clothes" is no longer true. Winter clothes are an important cold weather protection item, especially for single-coated dog breeds (such as toy poodles) and short-haired dog breeds (such as Chihuahuas).

The key is to use different clothes depending on the situation, such as a thin cotton material indoors and a warm fleece or fleece-lined material when walking. The most important thing is a size and design that does not restrict your dog's movement . Clothes that are too tight can cause stress.

Petopop offers a wide range of items that are not only stylish but also prioritize your dog's ease of movement. We hope you will find the perfect item for your beloved dog.

Point 3: Moisturizing care that is often overlooked

In winter, indoor temperatures can be drier than we realize due to heating, and this dryness can damage your dog's skin and paws.

• Prevent cracked paws: After your dog comes back from a walk, wipe his paws clean and then apply a pet paw cream to prevent dry cracks and protect his delicate paws.
• Dry and itchy skin: Dry air can cause dry, itchy skin. Brushing your dog frequently to promote blood circulation is also effective.

These small details can make a big difference in how comfortable your dog is during the winter.

Summary: Keep your dog warm this winter with these little tricks

This time, we introduced three points to keep small dogs warm in the cold : environment, clothing, and moisture . All of these are simple things you can start practicing right away.

As pet owners, we need to provide our dogs with the support they need to survive the winter without shivering from the cold!