Winter walks can be great. Winter paws, less so. Road salt and de-icers dry out and irritate paw pads, ice can cause little cuts, and snow packs into the fur between the toes until your dog is walking on ice balls. The fix isn't complicated. A two-minute routine after each walk goes a long way.
Why salt is a problem
A lot of de-icing products dry and crack paw pads and irritate the skin between the toes. Dogs also tend to lick their paws once they're home, which is another reason to rinse the residue off. If your dog seems unwell after licking their paws, call your vet.
Before the walk
- Trim the fur between the pads. Long paw fur collects snowballs. A small paw trimmer makes this quick.
- Keep the nails short. Shorter nails give your dog better grip on slippery sidewalks.
- Think about paw balm or booties. Balm adds a light protective layer. Booties protect the most, if your dog will actually keep them on.
After the walk: rinse and dry
- Keep a paw cleaner cup with a little lukewarm water by the door.
- Dip one paw at a time and twist gently to loosen salt, grit and snow.
- Dry well with a towel, including between the toes. Damp fur between the pads is where irritation starts.
- Treat. Before long, your dog will stand at the door waiting for it.
It protects their paws and keeps salty, slushy prints off your floors at the same time.
Check the paws once a week
Spread the toes and take a proper look at the pads.
- Dry or cracked pads can use a pet-safe paw balm.
- Small cuts should be kept clean. Deeper cuts need a vet.
- Limping, redness, swelling or nonstop licking are all reasons to call your vet.
Indoors counts too
Dry indoor heat can dry out skin and pads. Keep fresh water out, and keep brushing through the winter, which helps spread the coat's natural oils.
Trim, rinse, dry, check. That's really all it takes to get your dog's paws through the cold months in good shape.