Katharina Buczek
Just like us, our pup’s paw pads can get burnt on hot pavement or frostbitten in icy conditions. During the warmer months, be sure to walk your dog in the early morning or late evening when the ground is cooler. You can even take your own shoes off and walk barefoot for a minute to gauge the temperature.
In the winter, you can consider using dog boots or paw wax to protect your pet’s pads from the cold and ice-melting chemicals.
5. Maintain A Healthy Weight
Finally, excessive weight can put additional pressure on paw pads, which increases the likelihood of injuries or wear and tear. That’s why keeping your dog at a healthy weight not only benefits their overall health but also reduces strain on their paws.
Common Paw Pad Problems
Cracked paw pads are a very common issue, and if you notice your dog suffering from this ailment, the best thing to do is keep their paws moisturized and avoid walks on rough surfaces until they heal.
On the other hand, if your pup’s paw pads become burned or blistered by walking on a hot surface, you may notice them limping, licking their paws excessively, or showing visible signs of distress.
You can treat burns by cleaning the affected area and applying a pet-safe ointment. Also, avoid any more walks on hot surfaces until they heal.
Cuts, punctures, and even excessive licking can lead to paw pad infections as well. Some signs of this may include swelling, redness, and a foul-smelling odor. If you think your dog might have an infection, it’s best to consult your veterinarian.
Last but not least, some dogs are actually allergic to certain grasses, chemicals, or even their own cleaning products. These allergic reactions can cause paw pads to become swollen, red, or itchy.
If you suspect an allergy, you can try to identify and eliminate the trigger. Consulting your veterinarian for appropriate treatment is also advised.
