Baby it's cold outside: Tips to protect your dog’s paws
Winter is tough on all of us, including our furry friends. To keep them healthy and fit, daily walks are always the best option (and, if we’re being honest, it’s good for us too!)! If you live in a place with lots of snow and winter conditions (Oh Canada!), it’s important that we know how to protect their paws from the hazards of winter!
P R E P
Before anything, grooming your dog’s paws is key. If they have long fur, it’s a good idea to trim the hair between the paw pads. If they have a lot of fur on their paws that touch the ground, trim that as well, as it will lessen the chances of snow or ice building up on their paws if they are outside without boots. If you prefer protecting your little one from the elements.
Here are a few options for you to consider:
B O O T S
Let’s start with what we already understand the best, BOOTS! No one likes having their feet wet unless we’re on a sunny beach at the edge of the ocean and dogs are no different! The boots might not always be a traditional option for dogs but it is the easiest. Yes, they walk funny, to begin with (don’t worry they’ll get used to it), but dog boots really are one of the most effective ways to protect your dog’s paws, especially if the city uses salt on the sidewalks for de-icing. The ingredients used in de-icing salt can cause serious damage not only to your dogs’ paws but also to their overall health. While there are pet-friendly options, cities don’t usually go this route. On the list of ingredients, the salt is usually listed as sodium chloride. There is also calcium chloride, potassium chloride, and magnesium chloride, all of which can cause irritation and inflammation on their pads and if the dog licks his paws or eats the snow while outside, it can cause burns to their mouth or digestive tract and lead to more serious issues.
Boots minimize contact with the salt and they also prevent any snow and ice build-up between their toes. It’s important to get the correct size, so before making a purchase, make sure to measure from the heel to the tip of the nail so that the fit is comfortable. Here are a few models we like:
R A I N B O O T S
Another option similar to dog booties is more of a dog rain boot. Hear us out: not only are they waterproof, but they protect their paws from ice and snow, and prevent their paw pads from being dry or cracked. They are made from natural materials and can either be reused or disposed of environmentally. They are also convenient; they are easy to put on as they don’t have any zippers, velcro, or buttons, and the material is thin enough that the dogs will still be able to feel the ground which is not possible with dog boots that have padding or a thicker sole. This is a big reason dogs don’t like the boots, they can’t feel what they are walking on! The natural rubber used for the “socks” is light and will allow your pupper’s paws to move more freely and yes, they are more likely to stay on their paw rather than be kicked off in frustration!
P A W B A L M
If your dog refuses to wear dog booties, another option is Paw balm. Paw balm is a wax or pomade generally made of beeswax, vegetable oils, and vitamin E. The balm can help prevent damage to the skin on your dog’s paw pads while helping to soothe and repair sore, damaged, and cracked pads. It will keep their paws moisturized and when applied before the walk, it will help create a barrier between their paw and the snow, ice, or salt from getting stuck in their toes. If snow accumulates between their toes, the dog’s body heat will melt the snow but it will refreeze into ice. The majority of paw balms are also non-toxic, in case your pup decides he needs to taste test it! You can also easily make your own if you’re so inclined! There are a lot of DIY recipes online. When you return from your walk, just use a damp towel to wipe their paws. There are also balms for indoors after taking a walk, which helps keep their paws moisturized and prevent cracking on the pads.
L A Y E R S, L A Y E R S, L A Y E R S!
Yes, dogs have fur and by definition, this acts as a layer of warmth. There is no denying that. However, when the temperatures really drop, it’s a good idea to invest in a sweater or jacket. Remember, not all dogs are meant for arctic-like weather. Nothing wrong with a little style for a walk around the block either! Of course, use your judgment, if the weather is unbearably cold and there’s a risk of frostbite (which dogs are not immune to) just stay inside. If it’s too cold for you, there’s a good chance it’s too cold for your dog as well. Common sense goes a long way.
Here are some jackets we enjoy for our rescue dogs below or at Canada Pooch!
Pay attention to your pups! Wash your paws!
When you return from your walk, it’s important to at least wipe their paws if you applied balm before the walk. There are several reasons for this including washing away any snow, ice, salt, or chemical used on the sidewalks as they can be toxic if ingested. If they decide to lick their paws afterwards, you can take comfort in knowing their “hands” are clean! And while outside, also keep them away from any slushy puddles they might want to sample or jump in!
Now, time to enjoy winter!