Must-read for dog lovers! What do veterinarians think you should be careful of when walking your dog in winter?

◆ Young and senior dogs

Young and senior dogs have difficulty regulating their body temperature, so they are more likely to become ill due to changes in temperature.

If you go out for a walk, it's a good idea to take proper precautions against the cold.

Especially when you take your dog outside in a cart, he doesn't need to move, so his body temperature drops even more.
Make sure to cover the body securely with a blanket or something similar.

◆ Single-coated dog

Dogs are classified as "double-coated" or "single-coated" depending on the way their fur grows.

・Double coat : Has both an undercoat and an overcoat. Shedding occurs in spring and autumn.

Examples: Shiba Inu, Siberian Husky, Chihuahua, etc.

- Single coat : Has only an overcoat and does not shed.

Examples: Toy Poodle, Maltese, Miniature Pinscher, etc.

It is generally said that dogs with double coats are more resistant to the cold, but small dogs with double coats, such as Chihuahuas and Pomeranians, can be vulnerable to the cold.

Single-coated dogs are considered more vulnerable to the cold because their fur is less dense.

Dogs with coats that are sensitive to the cold or small in size should take extra care to protect them from the cold.

◆ Dogs with chronic circulatory disorders

If you have a chronic circulatory system condition (valvular disease, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, etc.), your heart may not be able to cope with sudden changes in temperature, increasing the risk of developing pulmonary edema, a condition in which fluid accumulates in the lungs.

If you have a chronic cardiovascular condition, try going for a walk during the warmer hours of the day, within your limits.

If you have a chronic illness other than circulatory system illness, you may be more susceptible to the cold for various reasons, such as a weakened immune system.

In such cases, please take a walk within your limits.

◆ Clothes

Winter clothing for dogs is very effective.

These days, there is a wide variety of colors and designs available, so we recommend keeping warm by wearing clothes that suit your body type.

For example, Italian Greyhounds, which have long necks, look very cute in high-necked clothes!

◆ Boots

If there is snow on the ground or the roads are frozen, dogs who are not used to the cold ground may develop chapped paws and injury.

On days when the ground is extremely cold, we recommend wearing socks or boots.

Many dogs dislike wearing socks or boots, so if you live in a cold climate, it may be a good idea to gradually get them used to them.

When you first put it on, it's a good idea to practice indoors.

◆ Warm-up exercises

Doing warm-up exercises indoors before going for a walk can help relieve tension in the body and also help prevent injuries during the walk.

To gradually get your child's body temperature used to the outside air, it may be a good idea to have them play ball in the hallway or entrance area.

In addition to warming up, improving blood circulation through massage can also have a similar effect.

 

In winter, the days are short and the mornings and evenings are cold.

Ideally, it's best to go for a walk during the warmer hours of the day, but it can be difficult to find the time.

We recommend that you take a walk during daylight hours if possible.

Also, if the sun sets during your walk, don't forget to take precautions against accidents by using reflective strips or a bright collar and leash!

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