The harsh winter has passed, and before we knew it, the pleasant season has arrived, with flowers and greenery swaying in the breeze. For us dog lovers, this is also a time when it’s easy to take our beloved pups for walks and outings.
However, did you know that the early spring is actually a time when dogs are prone to feeling under the weather?
Our theme for this article is "Warmth Care for Your Dog" from spring through early summer. We will introduce recommended vegetables for building a body that can withstand daily temperature fluctuations, as well as easy-to-use warmth items, providing measures against the cold that are useful not only in winter but also during early spring and the chilly days of new growth.
Don't let your guard down just because it's getting warmer! Be mindful of your dog's health in early spring
While spring is often associated with warmth and comfort, it is characterized by sharp temperature fluctuations; mornings and evenings are cold, and depending on the day, winter chills can return, or the temperature can suddenly spike toward summer-like heat.
From the end of winter to early summer, the months from March to May fly by, and the intense changes in atmospheric pressure place more stress on your dog's body than you might imagine. In Japan, where summers and winters are getting longer year by year and extreme climate changes are becoming more pronounced, it is a good idea to be well-prepared for the cold, even outside of winter.
Also, the significant changes in the human environment—such as school entrance, starting new jobs, or moving—are another point of caution in the spring.
Your departure time from home might change, children who used to carry preschool bags might suddenly start carrying school backpacks, or the ambient sounds in the neighborhood might change... What we might consider "minor" changes can be a source of great stress for dogs.
We recommend consciously carving out relaxing time at night, incorporating warm, easily digestible meals, and trying to maintain a lifestyle that keeps your dog's body and mind in harmony as much as possible.
Recommended for spring cold protection. 6 vegetables to feed your dog
In spring, when dogs are easily affected by temperature differences, we recommend vegetables containing nutrients said to support daily health, such as "blood circulation" and "immune strength."
Precisely because it is a time of seasonal transition, incorporating high-nutrient foods can help you steadily build up your dog's natural defenses.
If you have questions like "Is it okay for dogs to eat vegetables?", please check out the detailed article below.
Ginger
Ginger contains pungent components such as gingerol and shogaol. Because it is often used in condiments alongside garlic (which is toxic), it is often mistaken for a forbidden food for dogs, but in fact, it has no toxicity.
Familiar as a human cold-remedy that warms the body, ginger contains components that support blood circulation and antioxidants, making it a promising addition for maintaining your dog's daily health.
It can be eaten raw or cooked, but because it is pungent and can be irritating, be careful to keep portions to a very small amount.
As the area near the skin is also packed with nutrients, grating it skin-and-all after a thorough wash is also recommended.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is rich in vitamins and contains components said to support healthy skin and mucous membranes, as well as antioxidants. In Eastern medicine, it is considered a vegetable that warms the body. It’s a great addition to your dog’s diet for balancing nutrition during the spring, when "hidden cold" can progress.
Pumpkin’s strong natural sweetness makes it popular as a treat, even when just steamed.
It is difficult to digest, so be sure to cook it. Keep in mind that it is relatively high in calories for a vegetable, and its thick texture can cause choking, so be sure to serve it in small pieces.
Mountain Yam
Mountain yam (Nagaimo) is rich in vitamins, potassium, and dietary fiber. Known as "mountain eel" for its high nutritional value, it has long been a staple in our diets for vitality and stamina.
Mountain yam contains amylase, an enzyme that aids digestion, making it a gentle choice for the gastrointestinal tract.
It can be eaten raw or cooked, but it can cause itching if it comes into contact with the skin, so handle with care when preparing it for your dog. It is safer to avoid giving it to dogs with existing skin conditions.
Also, note that because it is high in oxalates, dogs with kidney disease should avoid it. As a carbohydrate-rich vegetable with relatively high calories, keep in mind that overfeeding could lead to obesity or digestive upset like diarrhea.
Carrot
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and are said to contain antioxidant components. Low in water content and packed with vitamins and minerals that promote blood flow, carrots are a classic vegetable said to warm the body.
Although in season in winter, they are easy to find year-round, and they have a natural sweetness when cooked, making them easy to feed your dog. Excessive intake of beta-carotene can strain the liver, so moderation is key, but they are highly recommended for cold protection this season.
Burdock Root
Burdock root (Gobo) is rich in dietary fiber, amino acids, minerals, and folic acid, and is expected to help activate intestinal health and support daily wellness. As a type of root vegetable said to warm the body, it is perfect for protecting your dog from the cold.
Burdock root has strong astringency, so be sure to peel it thoroughly, remove the bitterness (aku), and boil it until soft before feeding. Because it is high in fiber and can be hard to digest, don't forget to chop it finely to prevent choking or indigestion.
Bonus: Jujube (Natsume)
Classified as a fruit rather than a vegetable, the jujube is highly valued in Kampo and medicinal cuisine as a healthy ingredient that replenishes energy (Qi) and blood, while warming the body.
Rich in iron and minerals and known for its vitality-boosting properties, the jujube has recently gained attention in the pet industry as a superfood that both humans and dogs can enjoy.
If feeding to your dog, avoid processed human versions which are often sweetened with sugar; choose additive-free dried jujubes instead.
Always remove the seeds, and for dogs with sensitive stomachs, it is best to peel the skin, chop it finely, and add it to soup to soften it before serving.
However, while it is gaining attention from a healthcare perspective, it is a fact that it is not yet a common food for dogs. It is safer to consult your regular veterinarian before introducing it to your dog's diet.
Which breeds are sensitive to the cold?
Just as humans have different tolerances to cold, dogs have varying endurance based on their breed and age.
For example, breeds with very short fur like Italian Greyhounds, Miniature Pinschers, and Chihuahuas, as well as very small toy breeds, and brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs with weaker respiratory systems, are known to be sensitive to the cold.
Also, long-haired breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles, and Papillons are, contrary to their luscious coats, actually sensitive to the cold. They have a "single coat" structure, meaning they lack the undercoat that protects the body from the cold.
Additionally, senior dogs and puppies have less effective thermoregulation compared to adult dogs, so extra attention should be paid to them.
It is important to understand the specific characteristics of your dog and take appropriate measures against the cold according to the season and climate.
Watch out for these behaviors! Signs your dog is cold
Unlike humans who can put on a jacket or adjust the AC, it is difficult for dogs to manage the cold on their own.
If you see the following behaviors, it may be a sign that your dog is feeling cold:
・Curling up tightly
・Burrowing under blankets or throws
・Becoming less active
・Drinking less water
Also, be aware that these can be signs of genuine illness, so keep a close watch.
During seasonal transitions with large temperature swings, observe your dog's condition daily and provide appropriate cold protection.
For the cold of early spring. Cold protection ideas for your dog
We previously checked out recommended vegetables for cold protection; in this section, we've summarized other ideas for combating the cold that are easy to incorporate into daily life.
Make sure to cover all bases and get ready for the spring chill with your dog.
Raise basal body temperature by increasing muscle mass
When thinking about cold protection for your dog, muscle mass is an important point.
If a dog has well-developed muscles, their basal body temperature rises, and they can generate heat within the body efficiently—the same goes for both dogs and humans. Building muscle is a long-term goal for cold protection that you should keep in mind daily.
In addition to daily walks, it is good to establish a habit of letting your dog run freely from the time they are a puppy. Since excessive exercise on concrete puts a strain on joints, it is better to choose natural areas like grass or dirt if possible.
Personally, I recommend the beach. Sprinting on soft sand requires effort and naturally builds muscle. Dogs often lose strength in their hind legs first, so the beach is perfect for training those muscles, killing two birds with one stone in preparation for their senior years.
Also, protein is essential for muscle building!
Be mindful of their diet by topping their regular food with meat or fish, or choosing dog food with higher protein content.
However, keep in mind that feeding too much protein to a less active dog can cause obesity or strain the kidneys and liver, so be sure to feed an appropriate amount tailored to your dog's lifestyle.
Frequent brushing is a plus
Maintaining the health of your dog's coat is also effective for cold protection.
Daily brushing not only removes tangles and mats, improving airflow, but by keeping the coat neat, it creates a layer of air on the skin's surface, enhancing heat retention. You can also expect blood circulation benefits.
Also, I highly recommend incorporating massage. It promotes circulation, relaxes muscles, and helps raise your dog's body temperature.
Try simple massages introduced on social media, or since professional dog massage services are increasing, hiring a pro is also a good option.
Watch your dog closely, and be careful not to force uncomfortable positions or apply too much pressure.
Be mindful of keeping the room at an appropriate temperature and humidity
Be conscious of maintaining a comfortable temperature and humidity in the room where your dog spends their time.
Generally, a comfortable temperature for a dog is said to be around 18°C–25°C, with humidity between 40% and 60%.
However, this suitable temperature varies depending on many conditions—long-haired vs. short-haired, double coat vs. single coat, small breed vs. large breed, country of origin—so try to provide a room temperature tailored to your dog.
In early spring, even if the air temperature rises, floors can be surprisingly cold.
It is recommended to provide a carpet or create areas of different temperatures so your dog can move to their preferred spot as they like.
Use warmth items wisely
Whether it’s the cold of winter or the chilly mornings and evenings of spring, use warmth-promoting items for your dog.
Dogs who hate the cold love kotatsus, but be careful as they pose a high risk of heatstroke and dehydration. A hot water bottle that allows them to move away at will and provides localized warmth is recommended. At this time, be very careful of low-temperature burns.
Also, "Azuki no Megumi" (a bean-based heating pad) for humans is recommended as a warmth item for dogs. It doesn't get too hot and gently warms the body with steam.
saesa's additive-free toppings to pamper your dog
At saesa, we put our hearts into creating carefully crafted dog food toppings using only domestically grown, additive-free vegetables grown with organic fertilizer. By simply sprinkling it over your regular dog food, you can easily incorporate vegetable nutrients into their daily meals.
Leveraging our expertise from running a vegetable processing plant for over 50 years, we implement the same rigorous quality control used for products supplied to pharmaceutical and food manufacturers, ensuring the high quality that even we humans could eat.
If you are thinking about incorporating vegetables into your dog's diet, please give it a try.
Conclusion
Spring is a comfortable time, with warm sunshine and the greenery of budding flowers.
Please use this column as a reference to take measures against the cold, and enjoy a happy, healthy spring with your dog despite the temperature fluctuations.