Winter Must Have for Small Dogs🐾❄️

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When the cold weather finally hits, we can’t forget our pets. It’s important to remember they are sensitive to hot pavement during the summer time, but also to remember if they are small they will get colder faster.

Do keep this in mind when taking your furry friend for a walk, and avoid walking any dog when temperatures drop below -10℃, even if they're wearing a coat.

Limit walks to 15 – 20 minutes to avoid the harsher effects of the cold. Look for cues such as whining, shivering, or hard skin – dogs can get frostbite too!

When it comes to winter care for small dogs, there are a few important things to be aware of to ensure they stay safe and comfortable:

1. Hypothermia and Frostbite – Small dogs, especially those with thin coats or lower body fat, can easily become cold and develop hypothermia or frostbite. Keep walks short, and make sure they’re bundled up in a warm coat or sweater.

2. Salt and Chemicals – The road salt and de-icers used on sidewalks can irritate your dog’s paws, potentially leading to burns or dryness. Always wipe down their paws after walks, or consider using protective booties.

3. Shorter Daylight Hours – With the days being shorter, you might find yourself walking your dog in the dark. Make sure they’re visible by using reflective gear or a light-up collar to keep them safe.

4. Indoor Heating and Dry Air – While indoor heating can keep your home warm, it can also dry out the air. This can cause dry skin or make their paws more prone to cracking. You might want to consider a humidifier and moisturizing paw balm.

5. Overheating from Layers – Be careful not to overdress your dog. While keeping them warm is essential, too many layers can cause them to overheat, especially when they’re inside or after a walk.

6. Frozen Water Bowls – If your dog spends time outside, their water bowl can freeze quickly. Be sure to provide fresh, unfrozen water to keep them hydrated.

7. Cold Surfaces – Small dogs can be more sensitive to cold, hard surfaces like icy sidewalks or even metal crates. Consider putting down a blanket or heated pad for them to rest on.

8. Exercise and Mental Stimulation – Bad weather can reduce outdoor exercise opportunities, so be sure to keep your dog mentally stimulated with indoor toys, games, and training.

9. Diet and Weight Management – If your dog becomes less active in winter, be mindful of their weight. You may need to adjust food portions to prevent unnecessary weight gain.

10. Senior Dogs or Health Concerns – Older dogs or those with health problems like arthritis may feel the cold more intensely. Keeping them extra warm with cozy bedding or a heated blanket can make a big difference in their comfort.

Here’s a list of winter must-haves to keep your small dog warm and comfy during colder months:

1. Warm Coat or Sweater – A snug, insulated jacket or sweater is essential to protect your pup from the cold. Look for ones with high collars or hoods for added warmth.

2. Booties – Protect their paws from ice, snow, and salt. Make sure the boots are comfortable and slip-resistant.

3. Blankets – A soft, cozy blanket can help keep them warm during naps or when they’re curled up in their bed.

4. Heated Bed or Pad – Small dogs tend to get cold more easily, so a heated bed or pad can offer extra warmth, especially for older or small breeds.

5. Dog Safe Paw Balm – Paw balm helps protect their paws from rough conditions, like salty sidewalks or frostbite.

6. Snuggly Dog Bed – Choose a bed that’s insulated, and if possible, one with raised edges to create a den-like space for them to burrow into.

7. Turtlenecks or Layers – For very chilly days, layering can add extra warmth without making them feel too bulky.

8. Waterproof Jacket – If you’re in a wetter, snowy climate, a waterproof coat can keep them dry during walks, preventing their fur from getting too soggy.

9. Portable Water Bottle with Bowl – Hydration is still important, even in winter. A portable water bottle with an attached bowl makes it easy to offer your dog a drink on walks.

10. Winter Grooming Essentials – Short coats or wiry fur can get dirty more easily in the winter, so you might want a brush that’s gentle on their fur to remove snow or salt residue.

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https://video.wixstatic.com/video/19dfc9_aedfda64f47f42c4b95e6a8abc1e26ad/720p/mp4/file.mp4

Stella is from California. When I rescued her in Vancouver and we lived there for 2.5 years we didn’t see much snow. I never really considered getting booties for her until I recently moved from the big city back up North where it’s a lot colder and way more snow.

I had taken her to the park after work one day and realized quite quickly she was lifting her feet and shivering. My mom mailed me some booties last year for Christmas so I dug those out of storage and we tried them out. At first she wasn’t to thrilled… especially walking around at home.

When we arrived back at the park, I picked her up and carried her from the truck to the snow and put her down. She realized quite quickly her little toe beans weren’t getting cold and started exploring right away. Eventually she started running and getting excited, jumping around having fun out side.

Now they are an essential part of our walks during these northern winters! We bundle her right up and put layers on her. Even a little knitted scarf. (Yes. Overboard but essential for a chihuahua 😂)

I highly recommend ordering a pair for your dog! You can find some on Amazon, I’ve linked a pair below that I thought were too cute 🐾

JZXOIVA Small Dog Boots, Dog Boots Paw Protector for Winter Snow Days, Hot Pavement, Dog Shoes with Anti-Slip Rubber Soles for Hardwood Floors Outdoor Walking Pink Size 3 https://a.co/d/ioBLcLf