We love our dogs and will do anything to keep them safe and feeling good. Paw care is important and part of pet care. Sometimes, even a short outing in extreme weather conditions can be dangerous for your furbaby.
A dog’s paw contains specialized structures that help your pup move over different surfaces. The bottom of the paw is covered with thick, resilient pads that become callused after many years and carry plenty of dirt and muck back indoors after going for walks.
Whether you’re out in scorching weather or enjoying fresh snowfalls with your pup, cracked, dry paws are no fun, and you should do everything you can to protect your dog’s paws during extreme weather. You can learn useful tips on dogs hygiene and care at globalpets.info.
Another problematic issue is funky, smelly paws where dog odor lingers. It’s also an area that is less checked than other parts of the body.
Whether it’s raining, snowing, just plain muddy, or excessively dusty, you need to clean off whatever your pup picks up on his paws, here’s the takeaway:
Why Do Dogs Need Paw Cleaning?
You may have noticed that your dog’s paws smell of Fritos. So, what causes this smell? Smellier paws don’t mean that your pup is unhealthy.
A 2022 study published in Live Sciencediscusses why dog’s paws smell of Fritos. Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinary officer at the American Kennel Club (AKC), tells Live Science, “Every animal and person has normal skin flora that protects us and has a certain balance of different microbes and bacteria.
” Our feet should not smell that way under normal circumstances.” Dr. Klein adds that when the skin’s flora changes, that’s when feet and paws become smelly. Dr. Klein says that Frito feet come about as a result of two types of bacteria: Pseudomonas and Proteus, both of which can give off a yeasty odor similar to corn chips. Dr. Klein says that if your dog’s paws don’t bother your dog, then there’s probably no issue. But if the smell bothers you, then you can do the following:
- Dilute mild dish soap and warm water, rinse the paws and then dry them thoroughly.
- Check for lesions and ulcerations or infections.
- If your furbaby is licking or biting his paws excessively, you should visit your veterinarian, as it may indicate something more serious.
The American Kennel Club
The American Kennel Club (AKC) says that while it’s tempting to give your dog’s paws a quick rinse, it’s advisable to also check between the paws for salt and dirt that can accumulate between the toes. You should also check for infections between the pads, around the toes, and underneath the nail.
Dog Boots
Some dogs love their dog boots, and others refuse to wear them. An effective dog snow boot is a must-have to protect your dog’s paws from salt burns in cold, snowy, icy weather.
A well-fitting dog snow boot helps provide optimal weather protection for doggie paws and keeps his feet warm and dry. All dog boots should fit well, have traction, and be breathable.
Remember that it also takes a while for your pup to get used to wearing any type of dog boot. Boots with a webbing cam buckle and elastic cord system are easier to keep on. This type of dog boot stays on better than velcro in wet, icy weather.
Paw Wipes
Paw pads protect the paw and should always be checked after rinsing. Paw pads are used for gripping many types of surfaces, while the toenails provide traction and are used for digging. Using a plant-based paw wipe is safe for pets and makes cleaning muddy, salty, or dirty paws easy.
Paw Soaks
Paw soak gets your dog’s paws cleaner faster than anything else. Paw soaks don’t mean a complete bath but just rinsing off the paws and removing debris, road salt, debris, and other harmful substances that could affect your dog’s health.
If you have a large breed, using a shower head or outdoor hose might be easier. There are also plenty of portable dog paw washers made especially for dogs.
Grooming Towels
Keeping grooming towels by the front door lets you quickly dry off your dog’s paws and can help dry clean but wet paws. Using a super absorbent microfiber towel can help prevent slip accidents on wooden floors and also prevent muddy footprints throughout the house.
Check for Cuts on Paws
Cleaning your dog’s paws allows you to check for cuts, abrasions, and infections. Warm air inside the home and cold air outside can result in paw cracks, which is painful for your pup. Your dog’s paws may also be prone to cuts and scrapes from the outdoors that your vet can help you treat.
Paw Wax
Protection is key, and using paw wax can help in the same way lotion helps. Paw wax is more protective and helps ward off irritants when your dog is outdoors. It’s best to apply a paw wax before going for a walk for extra paw protection. As usual, opt for all-natural paw waxes that do the following:
- Soothes and protects
- Repairs and restores
- Moisturizes and heals
Balms
Dog paw balms, salves, and butter feature ingredients to keep paws supple and healthy. Dog paw balms act as an invisible shield to repel dirt, snow, and ice and help prevent drying and cracking of the paws. They also help to moisturize and heal tissue that’s been damaged.
Some dog paw balms are also effective for inflammation and infection. When shopping for paw balms, look for ones that contain natural ingredients like vitamin E, essential oils, and beeswax.
Keep Dog Walks Short
Keep walks short if your furbaby suffers from a paw injury or infection. You should also only spend a little time outdoors if the temperature is below – 25 degrees C or very hot outdoors. Pavements can be very hot and burn a dog’s paw pads.
Even if you have a long-haired dog, frostbite can occur on those sub-zero temperature days. Certain breeds and ages are also more sensitive to cold, so it’s best to go on many shorter walks instead of a long walk when it’s snowy outdoors.
