Toy dogs are much more sensitive to changes in temperature, therefore cold weather poses a much higher risk for small and toy dog breeds as opposed to larger ones. Due to less fat and no second undercoat, small dog breeds can often be seen shaking and shivering when the temperature drops - this is a signal that it is already too cold for your dog! Other signs to watch out for include:
- Whining
- Acting anxious
- Searching for warmer locations
- Slower movements
- Holding one (or more) paws up
- Taking a cramped posture
- Cuddling up on your leg or another heat source
If any of the above symptoms are showing, please remove your dog from the cold immediately, and get them to a warm place. However, being proactive and putting preventive measures into place is the best way to avoid any unfortunate circumstances. Here are 4 easy ways to keep your tiny, fury family members warm this winter:
1. Limit the amount of outside time
Once the temperature drops below 0C (32F), it simply becomes unsafe for tiny dogs to be outside for extended periods of time. Short walks on mild days are a good way to make sure your pup still gets some exercise, and fresh air during the winter. But on days that are just too chilly, it’s best to use this time to engage in some indoor stimulation for your lil pal. Playing games, teaching tricks, tossing toys around the house, or using puzzles is a great way to spend some quality time with your little dog, while also ensuring they get the mental stimulation they’d otherwise get from their daily walk. Did you know that 15 minutes of mental stimulation is equal to 30 minutes of physical exercise?
2. Get some winter gear
Besides remaining on the cutting edge of seasonal fashion, providing your pup with appropriate winter clothing will help to keep them more comfortable when venturing outdoors - or even when just lounging around the house. A warm coat is a must have for all small pups exposed to colder temperatures. Depending on their tolerance for clothing, boots and hats can also greatly enhance their (cuteness) and comfort when frolicking through the snow. Most pet shops have a great selection of sweaters, shirts and socks too, if your little one tends to be chilly indoors as well.
3. Providing warm, cozy places to sleep
If your little dog is anything like mine, comfort is high on her priority list. Especially during the cold months, it’s recommended to create at least one extra cozy spot for your furbaby to be able to retreat to and keep warm. Deck their bed out with fuzzy blankets, down quilts, or other special items they like to cuddle up to. (Pro Tip: We highly recommend setting up beds with (non drafty) window access. Having an outside view, and keeping tabs on the neighbourhood, helps with boredom while stuck indoors for long period of time)
4. Set up an indoor potty area
For those very cold days and nights, or even if you have limited accessibility to the outdoors, it can be advantageous to set up an indoor potty area. Pee pads, and fake turf can easily be put together to provide a relief station. And it doesn’t have to be indoors specifically. Even quick access to a balcony can make it easier to navigate bathroom breaks when it’s not appropriate to go outside.
Although winter can be challenging for our fur-baby's, it is our job to provide them with the necessary comforts to ensure they are happy, safe and warm during this time of the year. The good news is winter doesn't last forever, and before too long, we'll once again be enjoying sunny skies, warmer weather and our beloved outside time with our fur little pals. Until then, stay warm!
Disclaimer: All information on this website is for general informational purposes only. The opinions expressed here are shared from the authors own personal experiences, and should not be considered professional advice.