Your dog’s paws are made to endure years of tough play, but that doesn’t mean they couldn’t use some TLC along the way. Paws are actually quite sensitive! Dog paws are also important in protecting bones and joints from shock. If your pet’s paws become injured or sore, it could cause problems elsewhere in their joints. It’s worth a little time and attention to make sure your best friend’s tootsies stay in tip-top shape. 

Here are some of our favorite paw care tips:

• Get regular pedicures. Doggy pedicures ensure that your dog’s nails stay the proper length, that the fur between their toes is not too long, and that the pads are well conditioned. Wondering if you can trim your dog’s nails yourself? Yes, you can: here’s how.
  

  

• Keep paw hair trimmed and tidy. If the hair between their toes gets too long, it can become matted, causing the dog to lick at it and cause irritation. This is especially a concern for curly-coated breeds like poodles and poodle mixes.
  

• Be aware of pavement temperatures, especially when visiting hotter climates. If the pavement is hot enough to fry eggs, it’s not a kindness to expect your dog to walk on it!  Avoid hot pavement by walking your dog early in the morning or after the sun goes down.

• Dog booties can be used to protect paws, and are especially nice for limiting exposure to extreme weather or chemical agents like salt. If your dog vacations with you in winter weather locations, booties may be in their fashion future! 

• Avoid dry cracked pads by rubbing paw pad conditioner or vitamin e oil into your dog’s paws regularly.

• Inspect your dog’s paws regularly. Wash lacerations with soap and water and cover with topical antibiotic cream. If your pet is susceptible to yeast infections and other skin disorders, thoroughly drying wet paws is worth the extra effort. Does your dog constantly chew and lick their toes, but you can’t find the problem? They may have an allergy – consult your vet.

• Keep your dog’s paws clean between the pads. It is easy for small rocks or other debris to become lodged and cause injury. Always check between the paw pads after a romp through the canyons to be sure your pet hasn’t picked up any painful burrs or foxtails between their toes.
  

• Try to avoid walking through hazards like glass, foxtails, or sharp rocks. Your dog won’t think about the potential for injury until it’s too late, but you can look ahead and steer them in a safer direction.
  

• Massage paws gently to increase circulation and promote healthier skin. Try this next time you’re lounging with your dog on the sofa. It’s good for their feet, and is also a good training experience. When paw handling is pleasant, your dog becomes relaxed and cooperative about having their feet handled, and it makes their next pedicure that much easier!

The best way to protect your dog’s paws is by practicing prevention. Give your dog the TLC it deserves and they will provide a lifetime of love and companionship.

To find out more visit:

Keeping Dogs’ Paws Healthy l Canine Health Foundation

Top 10 Paw Care Tips For Dogs l ASPCA