Cold weather can take a toll on your dog in much the same way it does on you. Brisk air and dry conditions can both lead to irritated, chapped skin. Paws, in particular, are a prime concern because they’re exposed to everything from the freezing ground and snow to hazardous ice-melting chemicals throughout the season. By adhering to a few precautionary pet care habits, you can ensure that your dog’s paws remain safe no matter what winter brings.

Pet Care Tips: How to Protect Your Dog’s Paws in the Winter

1. Dry Their Paws

Going on short, regular walks is a great way to ensure your dog remains healthy throughout winter. But you should also be sure that your furry friend’s paws are free of debris when you return home. Rinse their paws thoroughly in warm water, and use a gentle, moisturizing cleanser to loosen any stubborn dirt and protect their paws from irritation. After cleaning, dry their paws thoroughly. When you’re out and about, keep a small towel on hand so you can remove salt crystals from their paws as needed.

2. Consider Dog Booties

If you discover cracks in the pads or redness that appears between the toes, you may want to protect your pup with comfortable booties. These will prevent potentially harmful contaminants, like sharp icicles, salt, and other ice-melting chemicals, from causing discomfort. Bear in mind some pets may take time growing accustomed to booties.

3. Groom With Care

Proper dog grooming can also protect the paws. Make sure that your dog’s hair is trimmed properly to prevent uncomfortable matting and discourage chemicals and pollutants from clinging to your pet. Pay close attention to their feet, as long hair can very easily trap ice balls and create discomfort. Focus on pet nail trimming, too; nails that are too long can snag or collect debris. Make sure to moisturize your dog’s paws thoroughly after washing them, either with petroleum jelly or a product specifically formulated for pet care.

4. Inspect Them Regularly

It’s always best to be cautious when your pet’s health is concerned. Inspect their paws regularly to check for irritation or other signs of injury. An occasional scrape or burned paw can be remedied with an antibacterial product and a bandage. It can be tough to handle these steps on your own if your dog is fidgety, so pay a visit to your veterinarian or groomer if you’re concerned about any conditions. 

Karen’s Dog House of Beauty is the leading pet care provider in Cookeville, TN. Offering a range of dog grooming services, the family-owned business prides itself on treating your pet as their own. Whether you’re interested in dog stylist services, paw pad care, or you want to invest in a few pet supplies to keep on hand at home, you can trust them to provide just what you need. Visit their website for more details, or call (931) 823-9626 to schedule a grooming service for your canine companion today.