Year-round dog paw care

Dog paw pads are smooth and sensitive, yet exposed to various weather conditions. In summer, hot asphalt can damage them, while in winter, they are affected by salt and cold. If we do not provide proper protection, the paws can become dry, cracked, and painful.

Caring for dog paws is crucial for their health and comfort, especially in extreme weather conditions, although dog paws need care throughout the entire year. 

We have a few tips on how to ensure regular dog paw care:

1. Regular inspection and cleaning

It is necessary to check your dog's paws after every walk, whether for foreign objects (thorns, pebbles) or injuries. After a walk, wipe them with Natural Dog Company grooming wipes (baby wipes are also a good alternative) or wash them with lukewarm water, especially after walking on salt in winter or hot asphalt in summer. 

2. Trimming the hair between the pads

If your dog has longer hair, trim it regularly between the pads as well to prevent the accumulation of dirt and snow. 

3. Trimming claws

If your dog has claws that are too long, they make walking difficult and can cause pain or injury. A good sign that the claws are too long is if you hear your dog “clicking” on the floor; that is when it is time to trim the dog’s claws. 

You can read more about trimming dog claws in this blog post. 

4. Moisturizing the pads

Dry and cracked dog paw pads need special care with dog balms or natural oils (coconut or almond oil). It is essential to avoid human creams, as they may contain harmful ingredients.

When choosing dog balms, pay attention that they contain only natural ingredients. Our Paw Soother is made of 100% natural ingredients and is excellent for healing cracked and dry dog paw pads and moisturizing them to prevent this from happening. It can be used both preventively and curatively. 

5. Protection against weather conditions

In summer, avoid walking on hot asphalt; if it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for dog paws. In winter, salt and cold can damage the pads, so use dog boots or protective creams. In both summer and winter, you can use the Pawtection protective balm, which creates a nourishing and protective barrier for your furry friend's paw pads, allowing them to run freely on all their adventures throughout the year. Pawtection consists only of natural, organic, and healing ingredients and protects dog paws from hot surfaces, snow, and salt, and reduces contact with allergens, including grass, pollen, and mold. As you know, we have shoes, your dog has Pawtection. 

Caring for dog paws is extremely important, and with care and attention, we can help dogs enjoy a happy and satisfying dog life. 

If your dog has specific issues (cracks on the pads and infection) or if you are in doubt, it is better to consult your veterinarian.

Once your dog's paws are well-cared for, you can make a paw print of your dog friend as a keepsake.

With love, Tjaša.