Katharina Buczek
1. Keep Paws Moisturized
Just like our human skin, your pet’s paw pads can quickly dry out. Whenever this occurs, they may crack and bleed, which is painful and uncomfortable.
You can use a dog-specific paw balm or moisturizer to keep the pads supple and prevent them from drying out, especially during harsh weather conditions.
2. Regularly Inspect & Clean Paws
Every single time you take your dog out for a walk, make it a habit to check their paws. This is especially important if they’ve been out in rough terrain or extreme weather.
Keep an eye out for any splinters, cuts, or debris stuck in their pads or between their toes. Then, gently clean their paws with a damp cloth, and be sure to remove any dirt or salt – which can be particularly irritating.
3. Trim Their Nails & Fur
Overgrown nails can actually cause canines to walk differently, resulting in uneven wear and tear on their paw pads. Similarly, fur between the paw pads can mat and lead to discomfort as well.
So, it’s best to regularly trim your dog’s nails and the fur around their paws to prevent these issues.
4. Protect Against Extreme Temperatures
Would you ever walk barefoot on a scalding-hot road during the middle of a summer day or a freezing, snow-covered trail in the dead of winter? Probably not.
