How to Protect Your Dog’s Paw Pads in Winter

Winter can be tough on your dog’s paw pads. Low temperatures, snow, and chemicals like road salt can cause cracks, irritation, and even more serious injuries. Just as we protect our hands with gloves, it’s essential to take steps to protect our furry friends' paws. Here’s a practical guide to keeping your dog’s paw pads healthy throughout the winter.

Apply a Protective Balm Before Every Walk

A natural balm, like Paws & Nose - Complete Shield, can play a crucial role in protecting your dog’s paw pads against winter conditions. Applying this type of balm before every walk acts as a barrier against the cold and harsh chemicals like de-icing salt.

Why it's important:

• It hydrates the paw pads before they are exposed to the cold and rough surfaces.

• It creates a protective barrier that helps prevent the absorption of chemicals found on the ground, such as salt or antifreeze.

Pro tip: Apply the balm right before each walk, focusing on the paw pads, and gently massage it in.

Clean Their Paws After Every Walk

After each walk, it’s crucial to clean your dog’s paws to remove any traces of snow, salt, or sand. These elements can cause irritation and, in some cases, infections if your dog licks its paws after the walk.

Why it's important:

• Road salt and other de-icing chemicals can not only dry out and irritate the paw pads but also be toxic if ingested by your dog.

• Snow and ice can accumulate between the paw pads, causing pain and cracks.

Pro tip: Use a damp towel or cloth with warm water to gently clean the paw pads. Make sure to dry them well afterward to avoid further irritation from moisture.

Trim the Hair Between the Paw Pads

The hair between the paw pads can trap snow and ice, leading to irritation. In winter, it’s advisable to keep this hair trimmed to limit the buildup of debris.

Why it's important:

• Reducing snow and ice buildup between the paw pads prevents irritation and discomfort.

• Less hair also makes it easier to clean the paw pads after a walk.

Pro tip: If you're uncomfortable trimming the hair yourself, ask a professional groomer to do it to avoid injury.

Avoid Long Walks in Extreme Conditions

Sometimes the best way to protect your dog’s paw pads is to avoid extreme conditions. When it’s very cold, try to shorten walks and stick to areas where roads are not salted or icy.

Why it's important:

• Freezing temperatures can cause frostbite on paw pads, just like they would on human skin.

• Limiting exposure to chemicals like salt also protects the paw pads from irritation and cracking.

Pro tip: If you have a yard or a garden, let your dog play outside for a limited time without venturing onto icy sidewalks.

Hydrate the Paw Pads After Every Walk

After cleaning your dog’s paws, it’s recommended to apply a moisturizing balm to nourish the skin and reinforce the natural protective barrier of the paw pads.

Why it's important:

• Cold and salt can dry out the paw pads, making them more prone to cracks and injuries.

• Applying a balm like Paws & Nose - Complete Shield helps repair and protect the paw pads after long exposure to winter conditions.

Pro tip: Apply a generous layer of balm after each winter walk and let your dog rest for a few minutes to allow the product to absorb before they start walking again.

Conclusion: Prepare Your Dog’s Paws for Winter

Your dog’s paw pads endure a lot during the winter, but with the right care, you can keep them healthy and avoid many issues. By using a natural balm like Paws & Nose - Complete Shield, you provide your dog with effective protection against harsh winter conditions. Don’t forget to prepare for your walks by cleaning and moisturizing your dog’s paws before and after every outing.

The Balm is Coming in 2025, Ask Your Suppliers Now!

The Paws & Nose - Complete Shield balm will be officially available in 2025. We encourage groomers and dog owners to start asking their suppliers if they will carry it. Don’t miss the opportunity to protect your furry friends with this natural balm as soon as it launches!