Winter is the perfect time to spend time outside with your dog.
Many puppies prefer colder temperatures to hotter ones and love the opportunity to frolic in the snow.
But pet parents need to take extra precautions to keep their dogs safe in the winter, including finding the right type of paw protection.
Let’s take a look at how to protect your dog’s paws in winter and the best dog paw protection for your pup.
Important points
- Dogs’ paws bear the brunt of the dangers associated with winter weather.
- Low temperatures and antifreeze salts are a cause for concern, so you should take some precautions to protect your dog’s paws.
- As a responsible pet parent, it’s important to always use pet-friendly deicing salts.
Do dogs need paw protection in winter?
yes!
If your pet is outdoors for long periods of time during cold weather, you should protect your dog’s paws. Dogs’ paws bear the brunt of the dangers associated with winter weather.
These hazards include:
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sharp ice that cuts deep
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Snow can form painful clumps that get stuck in the fur between the paw pads and around your dog’s paws.
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Humidity increases. frostbite risk
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Lack of traction can lead to slips, falls, strains, and sprains
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It’s a chemical that melts ice, and licking its fur can irritate the skin and cause indigestion. Ingestion of large amounts can also cause muscle tremors and seizures.
These risks increase the more time your dog spends outdoors and the greater the distance they travel.
If there is snow or ice on the ground, it is important to protect your dog’s paws except for short walks outdoors.
How to protect your dog’s paws in winter
When going outside on cold days, it’s important to protect your dog’s paws from the winter weather.
Cold temperatures and anti-icing salts are cause for concern, so you should take some precautions to protect your dog’s paws.
1. Use boots
You may be wondering if you should let your dog wear snow boots.
yes! dog snow boots The most reliable way to protect your feet in winter.
It’s best to avoid latex or rubber boots, as they can trap moisture and cause itchy feet.
Provides a nearly impenetrable barrier against sharp ice, snow, moisture and chemicals, aiding in traction. The best dog boots for winter are:
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lightweight
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Easy to get on and off
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Adjustable and available in various sizes for a snug and comfortable fit.
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Made of durable, waterproof and breathable material
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easy to clean
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anti-slip
Keep in mind that winter dog shoes will take some time to break in.
First, wear it on your dog for just a few minutes at home.
Gradually introduce short and then long walks outside and be sure to give your dog. some snacks And praise.
Remove your dog’s snow boots when you come indoors so your dog doesn’t get uncomfortably warm or lick the chemicals on the outside of the boots. Leaving them on for too long can also cause painful pressure sores.
Clean the outside of your dog’s boots daily to prevent wear from salt and other environmental contaminants.
Winter dog boots provide the best protection from the elements, but they are not suitable for all dogs or in all situations.
Thankfully, pet parents have some other good options.
2. Use paw balm
Like paw balm Musher’s® Secret Paw Protection Natural Dog Wax It won’t protect your dog from sharp ice, but it will form a protective barrier against moisture and chemicals.
It also prevents snow from clumping between the foot pads and toes.
A good paw balm also contains ingredients that moisturize and soothe your dog’s paws.
To use dog paw balm, apply a thin layer of balm to the fur between the soles and pads of your dog’s paws, between the toes, and on the sides of the paws.
It’s best to do this outside or in the garage so your dog doesn’t track the paw print berm around the house.
put down the towel Place it next to the door so you can wipe off any chemicals or excess perfume from your dog’s paws before bringing him back inside.
If you are outdoors with your dog for long periods of time, you may need to reapply the paw balm.
3. Carry a towel
If you’re going out for a short walk, it’s a good idea to bring a hand towel or towel with you. grooming gloves With you.
You can use this to wipe chemicals off your dog’s paws, remove any snow chunks that may have formed, and dry your dog’s paws before returning indoors.
4. Shovel the path you set
If you have a garden, shoveling the dog’s path will make bathroom breaks easier for everyone.
Of course, you’ll still want to go for a walk around the neighborhood, and your dog might try to stray from the path you’ve laid out, so shoveling snow won’t solve all your problems, but it can help. There are things that happen.
Don’t let the cold weather prevent you and your dog from spending time outdoors. With a little preparation, winter can be safe and a lot of fun for your dog.
5. Use only pet-friendly deicing salts
antifreeze salt It works wonders to help clear frozen obstructions from your property.
However, as a responsible pet parent, it’s important to always use pet-friendly versions.
This is to prevent toxicity if your dog ingests it (think licking their paws after a long walk), and also because antifreeze salt is very harsh, so it won’t irritate sensitive dog paws or paw pads. It’s for protection.
Frequently asked questions about how to protect your dog’s paws in winter
Do dogs need snow boots?
Dogs aren’t like that, but need Some people may prefer snow boots to keep their sensitive feet warm and dry. It’s best to avoid latex or rubber boots, as they can trap moisture and cause itchy feet.
Do your dog’s paws get cold in the snow?
Yes, dogs’ paws get cold in the snow.
Too much exposure can cause discomfort, The paw pads become dry, cracked, and in severe cases can become frostbitten.
How cold is too cold for a dog’s paws?
How cold is too cold for your paws will vary from dog to dog.
In temperatures below freezing, feet should be protected with boots. If ice or snow remains, it can get stuck between the paw pads and cause scratches.
