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Just think about the beating your dog’s paws have to take every day. Walking on cold sidewalks for morning runs, or hot pavements during the afternoon is not easy.
We have not even mentioned the dirt, sharp rocks, and the many hazards involved in walking your dog.
Without taking care of your dog’s paws, they can go through constant wear and tear leading to cracked pads or even infections in the worst cases.
The good news today is that you don’t need fancy accessories and tools to take care of your dog’s paws.
Simple habits will get the job done. Quick checks and regular cleaning are the major things you need to know. Applying paw balm will make it even better.
Continue reading this guide to discover some of the best dog paw care tips to keep your canine friend in good shape.
Why Dogs Need Regular Paw Care
Your dog’s paws do more than the obvious. Yes, they help them walk, but did you know that the paw also protects your dog’s bones, joints, and tendons from impact?
Swollen, cracked, and dry paws can make dogs walk slower than usual. The other danger is infections. They can spread fast when left unchecked.
If you leave your dog’s nails longer than needed, they can mess with how they stand, scratch, walk, or run.
Regular paw care will also help in catching early problems in dogs. It’s through routine checks that you’ll be able to see a cut or a bruise that needs immediate attention.
How to Clean Dog Paws
Our furry friends count on us for more than food and belly rubs. Their health and safety are our full-time responsibilities.
Many dog owners are always consistent on other aspects of canine care, but paw care is often overlooked. Don’t fall into that category.
1. Inspect Your Dog’s Paws
Now that we know the importance, the big question now is how should we inspect our dogs’ paws.
It only takes a few minutes, seconds at best. Start by looking at the top, then the paw pads, and finish by looking between the toes.
Take your time to inspect if you notice anything unusual. Look for cuts, swelling, dry spots, or anything stuck there. This could be grass, seeds, tiny rocks, or wood splinters.
Once you’re satisfied, you can then gently press each paw pad, one at a time. Are they soft and smooth, or do they feel rough and cracked?
At this point, you’ll also want to see your dog’s reactions. If they quickly pull away, then there’s something amiss.
You’ll also want to inspect underneath each toenail. Dirt and moisture can get trapped there, leading to infections if left unchecked.
This process needs your hands, nose, and eyes. A slight smell is normal. But a pungent smell means your dog’s paws have a yeast infection or bacterial growth.
If something looks, smells, and feels off, it probably is. Make this a habit. Do it after walks and during bath time.
2. Trim Their Nails Regularly
Check the toenails too. Do they click on the floor when your dog walks? If the answer is yes, then it means they are too long. They need a trim.
Most household canines need a nail grind or trim at least once every two weeks. But this is not a general rule.
Your trusty vet or groomer may help you do it if you’re not yet comfortable doing it by yourself. Just remember not to cut near the quick (the pink part of the nail).
3. Protect Your Dog’s Paws from Hot Surfaces
Sidewalks and tarmac can get heated up quickly during the summer months. This should not stop you from taking your dog out for a walk.
We strongly recommend checking the ground temperature before taking your dog out. We can wear shoes, but remember our four-legged friends walk on bare paws. Walk early or late.
It’s also a good idea to pack a bottle of water when walking your dog on a hot afternoon. This will help in colling their paws when needed. A dog paw balm or cream may help too.
Or better yet, you can also opt for special dog boots to protect them from the hot pavements during walks.
4. Moisturize Dry Paw Pads
A dry paw pad can split and cause infections, besides the painful experience the affected dog is going to experience.
These are enough reasons to always keep your dog’s paw pads nicely moisturized and soft. A commercial dog paw lotion or natural coconut oil and shea butter can help.
Make sure to rub the moisturizing agents gently on each paw. Aim for at least once or twice a week and rub with a clean towel. It’s a good idea to do it often in cold or hot weather.
You can also try using a dog paw moisturizer DIY to cut costs. A good dog paw balm recipe should include things like beeswax, coconut oil, and a bit of shea butter.
5. Use Paw Protectors When Needed
Dog paw protectors can keep your dog from things that can damage their feet, which includes ice, snow, road salt, rough trails, and much more.
Boots and socks made for dogs are also beneficial for our canine friends who suffer from environmental allergies.
Their main job is to shield our four-legged pals from harsh chemicals, cuts, cold, heat, or any other road hazards.
In addition to all these benefits, dog paw protectors also improve traction on slippery surfaces and this may reduce risks of injuries.
When choosing a good sock for your dog, we recommend going for one that fits snugly but not tight.
6. Clean Paws After Every Walk
Even the shortest of walks can lead to dirty paws. Dirt accumulates too fast and you wouldn’t want your dog’s paws to look muddy.
Mud, pollen, and grime often get stuck between the pads and nails. This can lead to irritation or infection if not immediately cleaned off.
Immediately you get home from a walk, always remember to give your dog’s paws a good wipe with a damp cloth, or a dog-safe wipe, or use a dog paw cleaner.
Read our full article on: How to clean dog paws
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Dog Paws
Among many other uses, Apple cider vinegar (ACV) can help prevent the growth of stubborn bacteria and yeast.
The best part about this home remedy is that it’s affordable, safe, and super easy to use. Many pet parents have found it to be great for inflamed, stinking, or irritated paws.
To make this home remedy, all you need is to mix equal parts of ACV and warm water in a clean tub.
Place your dog’s paws, two at a time, in the tub and let them sit in the solution for about 5 – 10 minutes.
Use a clean towel to dry the paws. Make sure to rub all traces of residue ACV between the toes to prevent blistering.
This simple 5 – 10-minute soak can help clean the paw pad, ease itching, and kill unwanted microorganisms. It also cuts down on that ‘Frito smell’ if your dog has it.
Just a reminder, only use ACV on unwounded, clear skin. It stings if your canine friend has open cuts, healing wounds, or cracked pads. In those cases, wait until the skin heals before trying it.
You can use this remedy a few times a week (as needed) or immediately after your dog comes from a long outdoor adventure.
Dog Paw Infections
If you have ever asked yourself, ‘Why does my dog chew his paws?’, then dog paw infections could be a possible answer.
A dog paw infection always starts small but gets worse with time, especially when care is not taken.
Some of the signs to watch out for include swelling, bleeding, and bad smell. If your dog limps or avoids making that jump, you may need to check them right away.
Other signs include redness, pus, and inflamed skin. Also, watch if dog chewing paws becomes more frequent.
How to Treat Yeast on Dog Paws
If your dog has been unlucky to ever have a yeast infection, you may have seen their paws becoming itchy, smelly, and reddish. Another sign of yeast infection in dogs is constant licking and chewing.
To help dogs with yeast infections, you can start by cleaning their paws daily. Make sure to use warm water or a good commercial paw cleaner.
You may want to use a dog paw washer if you want to achieve deep cleaning without putting too much effort.
Remember yeast loves moisture. So, make sure to completely dry the paws using a clean towel after washing them.
Once you’re done with the washing, you can follow the above procedure using dilute Apple Cider Vinegar.
Do this as often as you can until you notice an improvement in their paw condition. You can also use dog paw balm to help clear the drying skin.
Always watch your dog’s behavior. If the chewing and licking decrease, then the yeast infection is slowly fading away.
Yeast infections in dogs often need vet care. They antifungal meds and other drugs depending on the level of sickness. If things don’t improve in a day or two, make an appointment.
The Stinky Dog Paw Remedy Guide
A little smell on your dog’s paws is not bad. But a stinky smell is a bad sign. The most common culprits are bacteria and yeast growth.
To solve this problem, you can start with cleaning. Make sure to use warm water and a gentle wipe to achieve a spotless clean.
Once all the paws are clean, you can now try getting that natural soak with diluted apple cider vinegar. It helps kill germs and neutralizes odor.
Remember to apply a dog paw balm or dog paw lotion to soothe dry skin. Do the paws still smell bad after a few days? Call your vet.
Dog Paw Balm DIY Recipes
You’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons of shea butter
- 1 tablespoon of beeswax pellets
- Optional: a few drops of vitamin E oil
Steps:
- Melt all ingredients together in a small pot or double boiler.
- Stir everything until the mixture is nice and buttery smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a small clean tin or jar.
- Allow the mixture to cool and firm up.
To use this mixture on your dog’s paws, use a clean finger to rub a small portion into your dog’s paws.
We recommend applying this after routine walks or right before bedtime. Make sure to store the balm in a cool dry place to maintain the potency.
The best part about this all-natural DIY dog paw balm is that it’s safe if your canine friends decide to give it a little lick.
When to Visit the Vet
Not every dog problem can be addressed at home, that’s why we need to keep tabs on qualified vets. Call your vet if you see:
- Visible swelling or sudden bleeding in your dog’s paws.
- Open wounds or discharge such as pus.
- A strong, unpleasant odor comes from your dog’s paws.
- Persistent limping that doesn’t improve over time.
- Cracked paw pads that don’t seem to heal despite treatment.
- Red, irritated skin that remains itchy even after cleaning.
- Constant licking or chewing of paws that continues to worsen.
Have you ever asked yourself, ‘Why does my dog lick their paws all the time?’. Well, this could mean your pooch is hurting, they have an infection, or they’re allergic to something.
Our advice is that you should not wait too long, because infections can spread and cracks can get worse. Also, licking or chewing might cause sore spots or bigger problems.
Conclusion
Your dog’s paws do the heavy lifting every day. They walk, run, jump, and handle all surfaces like hot sidewalks, cold snow, dirt, and rocky ground.
Never ignore paw care at any cost. Taking good care of your pet’s feet only needs a few minutes each day.
Clean, trim, and apply paw balm. Those are the best dog paw care tips you need to keep them nice, healthy, and soft.
RELATED:
15 Best Dog Paw Balms for Dry & Cracked Paws
Laura is the founder of Furs'n'Paws. She is a also a pet writer and expert with more than 20 years of experience of working with dogs and cats. She developed a very strong love for animals at a young age. Her passion led her to establish a thriving pet sitting and dog walking business in Dubai. As an expert in pet training, behavior, and nutrition, Laura is committed to helping pet owners and pet lovers by offering high-quality information on a wide range of topics.
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