Going Over The Best Ways To Care For And Maintain Your Dog’s Paws During The Cold, Snowy, And Icy Winter Months
As any dog owner knows, dogs need to be walked for exercise, stimulation, and potty breaks. This applies during the cold, snowy, and icy winter months too. However, the frigid winter weather can be hazardous to your dogs paws.
The purpose of this article is to offer some general advice on how to protect, manage, and treat your dog’s paws. This includes protecting them from the elements such as cold weather and icy terrain. Additionally, this article will cover the various products available to treat and prevent dog paws from ice and freezing temperatures.
A dog paw print in the snow
Winter Dog Paw Hazards
Dogs rely on their paws to get around, the same way people rely on their feet. However, most dogs don’t wear shoes. This means a dog’s paws are subjected to the cold, the wet snow, and ice. Extremely cold temperatures can cause a dog’s paw pads to become dry and crack (similar to dry skin in people). Cracked pads can bleed and become very uncomfortable.
Additionally, small pieces of ice can build up or become stuck between a dog’s paws. This can also be very uncomfortable and result in wounds and bleeding. If left untreated over time, they can develop into much more serious problems such as infections and nerve damage.
Protecting Your Dog
The best thing you can do to keep your dog’s paws safe this winter is to take preventative measures. It’s much easier to handle dog paw problems before they become a problem. Here are a few general suggestions on winter dog paw care.
Dog Paw Balm
If dog boots aren’t your thing, then consider using dog paw balm on your dogs paws. Dog paw balm is specifically designed to penetrate the tough skin of paw pads. It helps keep your dog’s paw pads moisturized and prevents cracking. This product can also help heal dry or cracked paw pads too! For more information on the best dog paw balm products on the market, click here.
A dog wearing dog boots
Dog Boots
One of the most innovative pieces of winter dog technology today are dog boots. These tiny boots come in sets of four and are specifically designed to fit around your dog’s paws. They help keep your dog’s paws dry and protect them from any pieces of ice hidden in the snow. For more information on the best dog boots on the market, click here.
Wipe Off Those Paws!
A good habit to get into is to wipe off your dog’s paws after every winter walk. Have a designated towel ready by the door for when you return from your dog walks and wipe those paws off thoroughly.
Many sidewalks and paths are covered in salt or chemical deicers which can be harmful to your dog if licked off. Wiping off your dog’s paws after every walk will ensure they don’t lick and ingest any dangerous salts or chemicals. It also dries off your dogs paws making them feel overall more comfortable.
A dog and owner walking on the sidewalk
Walk Where It’s Shoveled
When it comes to your winter dog walks, plan out the safest paths to walk. Typically speaking, you should walk on paths that are not deeply covered in snow or ice. Walking through thick snow and/or ice only increases the chances of your dog getting ice or cold, wet snow in between their paws.
We recommend shoveling your lawn, driveway, and sidewalk so your dog has a safe walking path. No matter where you walk your dog, give them a clear path so they can enjoy their walk and potty break in peace.
Need A Dog Walker Or Pet Sitter?
If you or someone you know is looking for pet sitting or dog walking services, then look no further than Paws & Claws Pet Sitting and Dog Walking! We service the Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Santa Clara, and West San Jose areas. Click here to contact us or give us a call at 408-752-2997.
Additionally, be sure to check us out on social media too! We post regularly on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an update or adorable picture of the many pets we care for.
