Winter: The Enemy of Dog Paws

Treat Your Pup’s Cracked or Dry Paw Pads

Here in Baltimore the chilly winter season is setting in – and as Olivia Rodrigo’s song goes, it’s brutal out here - especially on our skin! If you live in a region similar to us, you and your pup know the effects the Winter season brings that make outdoor ventures together not so fun. Moving from the chilly outdoors to the toasty comfort of home inevitably causes dry, cracked paw pads and skin throughout the season, and strolling along salted sidewalks covered with other ice thawing agents certainly don’t help either. Here are a few simple things you can do to keep your dog’s skin and paws healthy this winter.

Preventing Cracked Paws with protection

Applying a coat of paw wax before heading out for a walk together can prevent paw irritation and ensure your dog’s delicate paw pads stay smooth and protected. Regular moisturizing of your pup's paw pads will not only prevent cracks caused by cold, dry air after walks, but it will also form a protective layer from ice, salting agents, and rough terrain. A thin coating of products such as Natural Dog Company’s Paw Soother will go far in healing and moisturizing their paws!

Don’t forget a Post-Walk Wipe Down

After coming back inside, thoroughly cleanse your pup’s paws. Salt, antifreeze, and other chemicals are seen all too often on winter streets, so it’s important to clean your dog’s paws with warm water, a waterless shampoo, or grooming wipes. Be careful to check their legs and stomach, too!

* Antifreeze is extremely toxic to our fur-friends. As little as one teaspoon can cause kidney failure if ingested!

Trim Pad Fur

If your dog has long hair, it’s important to trim the hair between their pads and toe beans to prevent painful ice balls from forming. If you aren’t sure how, consult with your groomer - It’s easy for long fur to get packed with snow and ice, which can make walking painful.

Treat with Omega-3s

Add Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids (both found in fish oil) to your dog’s diet, whether it’s through treats, supplements or food toppers. If you can, begin adding a boost of these healthy fatty acids near the summer/fall transition, as they need about four to nine weeks to have an effect. Vitamin E can also be taken internally and/or applied topically (check for this ingredient when looking for paw and skin soother balms for your dog!). 

Soothing Oatmeal Baths and Regular Grooming

A bath with oatmeal shampoo can nourish irritated skin. But, don’t overdo the baths - bathing your pup too much will strip their natural oils and further contribute to dry, itchy skin. Vets and grooming experts suggest a 4-6 week bathing schedule. Regularly brushing with a soft brush can also help improve your dog's skin by stimulating the oil glands to produce more natural oils.

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Heal Hotspots At-Home with Natural Remedies