Proper paw care ensures your dog’s paws are healthy and injured-free. Regular nail trimming, moisturizing paw pads, and inspection for cuts or scrapes can help maintain paw health.

Cleaning your dog’s paws after walks can prevent dirt and debris from causing harm, and using paw protectants during extreme weather conditions can help protect their paws from cracking or drying out. You can help your dog stay active and comfortable for years to come by providing proper paw care.

Tips on Proper Paw Care

A metacarpal pad and digital pads make up a dog’s paw. These pads are made of fat and are protected from injuries and abrasions by a thick, rough layer of skin. Some breeds have a fifth claw near the carpal pad, which is sometimes removed when they are young to prevent snagging and injury. Pads protect bones and joints by cushioning and insulating them from temperature extremes. They assist the dog on rough terrain by protecting tissues inside the paw, thus vital to their well-being. Here are some pointers to keep your pet’s paws healthy.

Pedicures for your dog

When your dog walks, its nails should just barely touch the ground. Nail clippers should be used if your nails are clicking loudly. Request recommendations from your groomer or veterinarian on which nail trimmers to purchase and instructions on how to use them properly.

Trimming Paw Hair

It can become matted, which is painful. To avoid this, comb out the hair between the pads and cut it flush with the pads.

Clean the Spaces Between the Pads

Because pebbles or even broken glass can get caught between the digital pads, you should check them regularly. In most cases, removing the object with tweezers will be possible.

Pads Should Be Moisturized to Prevent Cracking

Choose ones made specifically for dogs because human moisturizers can soften pads and cause injury. Inquire with your veterinarian about a good pad moisturizer.

Pads Should be massaged.

This can relax your dog while also improving its circulation.

Choosing the Right Time to Start Program 

Start slowly if your dog has spent most of its time indoors and you want to exercise it more. The paws of an inside dog will not have developed a tolerance to rough surfaces, cold, or heat. As a result, it is critical, to begin with, short walks and gradually increase the distance.

Emergency Care

You must administer first aid if your dog gets a cut on one of its pads. Begin by cleaning the cut with an antibacterial wash, then apply an antibacterial cream. Wrap the paw in a bandage. This may be difficult for some dogs, but doing everything possible to keep your pet healthy is critical.

No Walking on Hot Surfaces

Hot asphalt or pavement can burn your dog’s paw pads. Place the back of your hand flat on the pavement and hold it there for 7 seconds to see if the ground is too hot for your dog to walk on. If it’s too hot for you to stand there for an extended period, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on! A dog walk or other outdoor activities are probably out of the question if the pavement is that hot.

Please keep your dog’s potty walks short during hot weather, try to walk him on grass and in the shade, and keep plenty of cool, fresh water on hand for frequent rehydration.