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- Ensure to keep your dog's nails short
- Groom your dog regularly
- Moisturise your dog's paws before they go outside
- Consider buying a pair of booties for your dog
- Make sure to wash your dog's paws after a walk
- Go for shorter walks during wintertime
- Protecting your dog's overall winter health
- Keep your dog's paws winter-ready
Winter can be tough on our pups! Between the snow, ice, and chilly pavements, your dog’s paws go through a lot during the winter months. Cold temperatures, road salt, and rough terrain can cause discomfort or even injury if you’re not careful. But don’t worry! With a little extra care, you can keep your dog’s paws healthy in winter. Here's your comprehensive guide on how to protect your dog’s paws in winter.
Ensure to keep your dog's nails short
Trimming your dog’s nails regularly is extra important in the winter. When nails get too long, your dog’s toes can splay out as they walk, leaving room for snow, ice, and salt to sneak in between their pads. This can cause painful ice balls to form or lead to irritation from de-icing chemicals.
Regular nail trims help your dog maintain better traction on slippery surfaces and reduce the risk of splitting or breaking a nail on frozen ground. Schedule nail trims every 3-4 weeks during winter, or more frequently if your dog spends significant time outdoors. If you hear clicking sounds when your dog walks on hard surfaces, it's time for a trim.
Groom your dog regularly
Winter grooming isn’t just about keeping your pooch looking good; it’s key to protecting your dog’s paws from the cold. Pay close attention to the fur between their toes. Long hair in this area can trap snow, ice, and salt, which can be uncomfortable and even cause tiny cuts. Trim that fur regularly to prevent painful ice build-up.
Regular dog grooming sessions should include thorough paw inspections. Check for cuts, cracks, or signs of irritation on the paw pads and look between the toes too, for any debris or early signs of frostbite. Catching problems early makes a big difference and helps prevent bigger issues down the road.
Don’t forget about the rest of their coats, either. A well-maintained coat helps protect your pup from the cold and keeps them feeling their best all winter long.
Moisturise your dog's paws before they go outside
Just as cold weather can dry out human skin, winter conditions can cause your dog's paw pads to become dry, cracked, and vulnerable to injury. Apply a pet-safe paw balm or moisturiser to your dog's paw pads before heading out for walks.
Look for products specifically designed for dogs, like The Spa Cracked Paw & Nose Balm, as human moisturisers can contain ingredients that are toxic if licked off. Avoid products with artificial fragrances or harsh chemicals. The best ones create a gentle, breathable barrier that shields your pup’s paws from the cold while still letting them move naturally.
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Apply the balm 10-15 minutes before going outside to allow proper absorption. Focus on the paw pads and any areas that appear dry or rough. A little consistency goes a long way; regular moisturising keeps those paws healthy, comfy, and ready for snowy adventures!
Consider buying a pair of booties for your dog
Dog booties are like cosy snow boots for your pup. They protect against ice, salt, and chilly pavements. Not every dog takes to them right away, but with a bit of patience and positive reinforcement, most can learn to enjoy them.
Choose booties that fit snugly without being too tight, allowing for natural paw movement while staying securely in place. The sole should provide good traction on slippery surfaces. Waterproof materials are ideal for wet, snowy conditions.
Start small, let your dog wear their booties indoors for short periods at first, giving lots of praise and treats for being such a good sport. Gradually work up to longer walks once they’re comfortable.
For dogs who aren’t fans of booties, protective paw wax can be a great alternative. While it doesn’t offer as much coverage as well-fitted dog coats and accessories, it still helps shield paws from salt and ice when used regularly.
Make sure to wash your dog's paws after a walk
Post-walk paw care during winter is especially crucial for removing harmful substances and preventing irritation. As soon as you return from outdoor adventures, rinse your dog's paws with lukewarm water to remove salt, de-icing chemicals, and debris.
Pay special attention to the spaces between toes where irritants commonly accumulate. Use a soft washcloth or your hands to gently clean each paw, ensuring you remove all visible salt residue and foreign matter.
After washing, thoroughly dry each paw with a clean towel. The Rufus and Rosie Quick Dry Towel will make short work of getting them nice and dry again. Moisture trapped between toes can lead to bacterial or fungal infections, particularly problematic during winter when healing is slower.
If you spot any redness, cracks, or small cuts, treat them right away with a pet-safe ointment or check with your vet for advice. A little post-walk care goes a long way towards keeping those paws happy and healthy all winter long.
Go for shorter walks during wintertime
When the temperatures drop, it’s wise to adjust your walking routine. Shorter, more frequent walks are often better than one long outing in freezing weather. Your dog still gets their exercise, but with less risk of cold paws or frostbite.
Monitor them closely for signs of discomfort, including lifting paws, limping, or reluctance to continue walking. These behaviours often indicate that paw pads are becoming too cold or irritated.
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Consider the temperature and surface conditions when planning walks. Fresh snow is generally easier on paws than ice or heavily salted sidewalks. Choose routes with less chemical treatment when possible.
And for those high-energy dogs who still need to burn off steam, don’t forget about indoor fun! Games like tug-of-war, hide and seek, or puzzle toys can keep them active and mentally stimulated until it’s time for the next quick stroll.
Protecting your dog's overall winter health
While protecting your dog’s paws is essential, their overall winter wellness deserves equal attention. Some breeds are naturally built for the cold, while others may need extra warmth with some winter clothing during outdoor adventures. Keeping your dog warm in winter helps them stay comfortable and confident on chilly walks, especially when temperatures drop.
Equally important is maintaining their health throughout the season. From balanced nutrition to regular exercise and grooming, a bit of extra care goes a long way in helping your furry companion enjoy winter safely, comfortably, and happily.
Keep your dog's paws winter-ready
Caring for your dog’s paws during winter takes a bit of effort, but it’s absolutely worth it. By keeping their nails trimmed, maintaining a regular grooming routine, moisturising those pads, and cleaning their paws after walks, you’ll help prevent most cold-weather problems.
Remember, every dog is unique! Some may need more frequent care or extra protection depending on their breed, size, or how much time they spend outside. Pay attention to what works best for your furry friend and adjust as needed.
With a little love and preparation with Jollyes’ doggy essentials, you and your pooch can enjoy a winter safe, warm, and full of wagging tails.