Winter and Summer Care for Small Dogs

Small dogs feel the weather more than big ones. Their size means they lose heat quickly in the cold and overheat fast in summer, so a little seasonal care keeps them comfortable and safe.

None of this is complicated. It is mostly about noticing that your little companion lives closer to the ground and has less body mass to buffer the extremes, then adjusting accordingly.

Winter

• Layer up. A well-fitted coat or sweater is genuinely useful for a small, low, or fine-coated dog on a cold walk.
• Mind the paws. Road salt and ice can irritate. Wipe paws after walks and consider a paw balm.
• Keep walks shorter and brisker in hard cold, and let a shivering dog head home.
• Watch the coat. A groomed, mat-free coat insulates far better than a matted one.

Summer

• Walk in the cool hours, early morning and evening, and skip the midday heat.
• Check the pavement. If it is too hot for the back of your hand for five seconds, it is too hot for little paws.
• Always carry water and offer shade and frequent breaks.
• Know the signs of overheating: heavy panting, drooling, weakness or a bright red tongue. Cool your dog and call your vet.

Year round

Fresh water always, sensible exercise for the conditions, and a close eye on the little signals a small dog gives when it is too hot or too cold. When in doubt, err toward comfort and cut the outing short.