Paws are one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of a dog’s body. They support every movement, absorb shock, help with balance, and provide protection from the environment. Whether your dog lives in the city, the countryside, or somewhere in between, keeping their paws healthy is essential for comfort and mobility.
This article will walk you through how to care for your dog’s paws throughout the year, including seasonal tips, common paw problems, and how to safely clean, moisturize, and protect your dog’s feet from everyday hazards.
Why Paw Care Is So Important
Your dog walks on all four feet every day—on rough sidewalks, hot asphalt, cold snow, wet grass, and rocky trails. Unlike shoes for humans, your dog’s paws are in direct contact with every surface.
Paw pads contain fat and thick skin that help absorb impact and protect bones and joints, but they’re still vulnerable to:
- Cuts and scrapes
- Burns from hot surfaces
- Frostbite in cold temperatures
- Dryness and cracking
- Infections
- Embedded objects like glass or thorns
Without proper care, paw issues can lead to limping, pain, infections, and even long-term damage.
Daily and Weekly Paw Care Routine
1. Inspect the Paws Regularly
Take a few moments each day or week (depending on your dog’s activity level) to check:
- Paw pads for cracks, burns, or discoloration
- Between the toes for debris, redness, or swelling
- Nails for overgrowth, splitting, or pain
- Hair between pads for tangling or matting
- Any signs of licking or chewing (can signal pain or irritation)
Early detection prevents small issues from becoming serious.
2. Clean the Paws After Walks
Especially important if your dog walks on:
- Pavement
- Wet or muddy areas
- Icy sidewalks with salt or de-icers
- Trails with dirt or sand
Use a damp cloth or dog-safe wipe to gently remove dirt, chemicals, or allergens. Focus on the pads and between the toes.
After cleaning, pat the paws dry to prevent fungal growth from moisture trapped between the toes.
3. Keep Nails Trimmed
Long nails can alter how your dog walks and put pressure on joints. You should trim your dog’s nails:
- Every 3–4 weeks, or as needed
- When you hear clicking on the floor
- If the nails begin curling under
Use a dog nail clipper or grinder, and avoid cutting into the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail). If you’re unsure, ask a groomer or vet for help.
4. Moisturize Dry Pads
If your dog’s paw pads become dry or cracked, use a dog-safe balm or moisturizer—never human lotion, which can contain harmful ingredients.
Apply a small amount and let it absorb. Natural options like shea butter, coconut oil, or paw waxes can also help.
Tip: Moisturize before bedtime to give it time to soak in while your dog rests.
Seasonal Paw Care Tips
Each season brings its own paw care challenges. Here’s how to keep your dog comfortable all year.
Spring
- Watch for sharp sticks, burrs, or leftover salt from winter roads
- Rinse paws after walks to remove allergens like pollen
- Prevent mud buildup between toes
- Check for ticks or parasites in grassy areas
Summer
- Test pavement with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog
- Walk early or late to avoid hot sidewalks
- Use paw wax or booties to protect from burns
- Keep walks short in extreme heat
- Provide shaded rest areas and plenty of water
Burns on paw pads can blister and lead to pain, infection, and limping—prevention is key.
Fall
- Leaves and debris can hide sharp objects—watch where your dog steps
- Moisture from rain can soften pads, making them more prone to cuts
- Continue checking for burrs, mud, and early signs of dryness
- Maintain nail trims as outdoor activity may decrease
Winter
- Snow, ice, and salt are harsh on paw pads
- Trim hair between paw pads to reduce ice ball formation
- Rinse and dry paws after snowy walks to remove salt and prevent irritation
- Use dog booties for added protection
- Apply paw balm before and after walks to seal moisture
Frostbite is rare but possible, especially in smaller or short-haired dogs. Keep outings brief when temperatures drop significantly.
Choosing and Using Dog Booties
Not all dogs love booties at first, but they can be life-savers in extreme weather.
Look for:
- Good traction and flexible soles
- Adjustable straps for secure fit
- Breathable and water-resistant materials
To help your dog adjust:
- Let them wear booties indoors for a few minutes each day
- Reward calm behavior with treats
- Gradually increase time until they’re comfortable walking in them outdoors
If your dog refuses booties, use paw balm or wax for protection against heat, cold, or chemicals.
Common Paw Problems and How to Handle Them
Knowing what to watch for helps you act quickly if an issue arises.
1. Cracked Pads
Cause: Dry weather, rough surfaces, chemical exposure
Treatment: Use paw balm regularly, limit exposure to extreme conditions
2. Burns or Blisters
Cause: Hot pavement or sand
Treatment: Cool water rinse, vet visit if skin is peeling or blistered
3. Cuts or Punctures
Cause: Glass, thorns, sharp debris
Treatment: Clean with mild antiseptic, bandage if needed, monitor for infection
4. Redness and Swelling
Cause: Allergies, infections, irritants
Treatment: Rinse paws, use anti-itch spray or wipes, consult vet if it persists
5. Nail Injuries
Cause: Snagged or overgrown nails
Treatment: Stop bleeding with styptic powder, trim carefully, vet for severe injuries
Tips for Puppies and Senior Dogs
Puppies
- Introduce paw handling early—touch paws gently during play or grooming
- Keep nails short to prevent splaying or joint strain
- Use treats and praise during trims or inspections
Seniors
- Check for arthritis-related stiffness in joints
- Use non-slip rugs indoors if paw grip is reduced
- Monitor for slow healing or sensitivity in pads
Older dogs may also develop calluses or corns, especially on rough surfaces—keep their paths soft and clean.
Final Thoughts
Your dog’s paws carry them through life’s adventures—from city sidewalks to muddy trails to quiet nights curled up at home. By giving their feet the attention they deserve, you’re helping your dog stay mobile, pain-free, and happy year-round.
A few minutes each week inspecting, cleaning, and protecting their paws can prevent major issues and ensure they enjoy every step they take by your side.