As dog parents, we are responsible for providing for them, caring for them, and, most importantly, watching out for them in extreme weather.
Dogs are vulnerable to cold weather, as are humans. Their paw pads can get itchy and cracked on exposure to cold wind. So, it's necessary to protect your dog's paws in winter to keep your dog ready and steady all the time. If you are a new or experienced pet parent, we have some essential tips for you.
This article is a complete guide to protecting dog paws in winter. So, keep reading to learn more about paw care for dogs, and you will find amazing ideas to explore.
Reasons To Protect Your Dog's Paws In Winter
Dogs are sensitive creatures, and they need extra care during the peak winter season because:
- People love the idea of long dog walks in cold weather. But, unfortunately, snow dries out dog paw pads, and they end up having itchy and chapped skin.
- Snow can make their paws crack, which could be painful. Sometimes, it seeps through their sensitive toes and makes them uncomfortable.
- Salt and chemical deicers can cause severe chemical burns to your dog's paw pads. This makes them lick off those salts and chemicals, which as a result, causes indigestion.
- Walking upon slippery ice balls can cause a lack of traction, and your dog might slip or fall.
- Dampness can also increase the risk of frostbite in dogs.
- Your dog might step on sharper objects like snow crystals and other metallic objects hidden under the snow. This can cause severe pain and injury to your precious dog's paws.
So, it's time to find out how to care for dog paw pads so your cute friend can enjoy the cold weather without injury!
How To Protect Dog Paws In Winter?
Dog paws can't be protected unless dog owners put some effort into it. Keep reading to learn some of the most effective tips to protect your dog's paws in the snow.
1) Consistent Grooming
Good grooming is the key to all dog problems. You must ensure your dog is ready to tackle cold weather. And for that, consistent grooming is necessary for healthy winter feet.
All you need to do is to trim their long hair so that ice, salt crystals, and ice-melting chemicals won't be able to cling to or dry out their skin.
Take good care of long-haired dogs and cut off the extra hair around their paws.
2) Consistent Cleaning
If you want to take your furry friend on a long winter walk, make sure you clean up your dog after returning.
A fine towel and warm water can help you clean your canine companion. After washing them, dry your furry friend and let them sit somewhere warm for a few minutes. This will protect your dog's paws in winter weather.
3) Moisturizing Your Dog Paws
Just like humans, dogs' paws also need to be moisturized from time to time to protect them from dry skin and itching. You can use dog paw balm or dog paw wax.
Vitamin C cream can also be a better option during cold weather. It will keep your dog's paws protected from dry air.
You can apply the paw balm anywhere around your pet's paws. Just make sure to apply it after every bath and a long walk. We are pretty sure your dog will enjoy this moisturizing skin treatment!
4) Dog Boots
Wearing boots is not just a thing for humans. Just like we wear winter boots to protect our feet from cold temperatures, dogs' paws also need to be protected in the same manner.
Booties will protect your dog's feet from injuries in snow. Dog boots also help protect your dog's feet from ice balls, salts, and other ice-melting agents that might be toxic to the skin.
At first, your dog might show some resistance, but it will get used to boots with time.
5) Keep Them Indoors
You must pay more attention to your dog's daily routines and behavior.
We are all aware that dogs love to play outdoors, and the fact is, it's good for their health. But you can't let them have long winter walks when it's freezing outside.
So, watch out for them in the cold winter breeze. Limit their winter outing, and keep them indoors in a warm environment.
6) Trim Your Dog's Paws
This is another grooming tip you'll want to take advantage of, especially in winter.
Use a trimmer from your dog accessories to trim your dog's nails. This will help maintain stable footing.
Some dog breeds have fur around their paw pads. Watch out for already broken nails. Trim it gently, as it might hurt your dog. You must also trim your dogs' fur to keep the snowballs from touching their toes.
In short, paw protection requires cleaning and trimming as well. So you can't skip this step.
7) Wipe Off Your Dog's Paws After Longer Walks
Whether you are taking your dog for a short or long walk, you must wipe off its paws after returning. During walks, ice-melting agents and certain chemicals get stuck to your dog's paws or dog's nails. This could be harmful to your dog's health.
So, make sure whenever you go outside with your dog, keep a towel and clean their paws so that no toxic chemicals harm your sweet pup!
Wrapping Up!
We know that each of you is excited about keeping a pet at home so your lonely hours can be spent with a lovely furry friend. But every precious thing comes with a price!
If you are willing to adopt a dog, you should be willing to take full responsibility for its love and care.
Keep your dog's paws clean and protected from cold air. Be consistent with its grooming. Trim the paw pads, clean and dry them, and moisturize them with a paw balm after every bath.
Most importantly, keep your dog in a warmer environment rather than letting them run off on a long trail in the snow. Taking care of your furry friend is not as hectic as it may seem. Just a few little tips and tricks can keep your pup safe from the cold.
This is it! So what are you waiting for? Go on out there and have an amazing time with your dog.
