Paw care for dogs - What I need to know

Your dog's paws are exposed to a lot of strain every day - they carry your four-legged friend over asphalt, meadows and forest paths, through rain, snow and heat. However, many dog owners neglect paw care until problems such as cracked paw pads, excessively long claws or foreign bodies occur. To make sure your dog goes through life pain-free, you should look after their paws regularly. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about proper paw care.

Why is paw care so important?

Dog paws consist of robust yet sensitive pads that are protected by a dense network of nerves and blood vessels. Neglected paws can quickly cause problems, for example:

• Cracked and brittle pads due to dry weather or road salt
• Inflammation of the skin between the toes due to moisture or foreign bodies
• Injuries caused by sharp stones, thorns or grit
• Pain and postural damage due to excessively long dog claws

With the right paw care, you can prevent these problems and ensure that your dog feels comfortable - on every walk and in every season.

Daily check of the dog's paws

After every walk, you should check your dog's paws for injuries, foreign bodies or dirt:

• Check the paw pads for cracks or brittle areas.
• Check the skin between the toes for dirt, moisture or signs of irritation.
• Look for foreign objects such as small stones, thorns or grain pits.
• Check the claws to see if they are too long or if there is a claw injury.

Step-by-step instructions for paw care

1. cleaning the dog's paws

Cleaning the paws is particularly important if your dog has walked through mud or on road salt. How to clean paws properly:

• Use a paw bath: Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and soak the paws to remove dirt.
• Use a paw cleaner: There are special paw cleaners that gently clean and condition at the same time.
• Don't forget to dry off! Damp paws can cause skin irritation.

2. care for paw pads

Paw pads can become cracked, especially in winter or on hot asphalt. A paw balm helps to keep the skin of the paw pads supple. How to apply it:

1. Apply a small amount of paw balm to the paw pads.
2. Massage it in gently until it is absorbed.
3. Let your dog sit on a towel for a few minutes so that the balm does not run off immediately.

3. claw care - don't forget to trim claws!

Dog claws that are too long can lead to misalignment or pain. Regular claw trimming is therefore an important part of paw care:

• Use claw nippers or a claw grinder to carefully trim the claws.
• Apply the tool to the tip of the claw and trim in small steps.
• If you are unsure, have the claws trimmedby a vet or groomer.

Tip: The wolf claw (dewclaw) does not grow off and must be trimmed regularly to prevent it from growing in.

4. paw protection in extreme weather conditions

Extreme weather conditions can put a lot of strain on dogs' paws. Here are some protective measures:

• Winter: Avoid contact with road salt or rinse paws thoroughly after a walk. If necessary, use dog shoes for sensitive dogs.
• Summer: Avoid hot asphalt surfaces - these can burn the pads.

5 First aid for paw injuries

If your dog has a small wound on its paw, you can take the following measures:

• Clean the wound carefully with lukewarm water.
• Disinfect it with a pet-friendly disinfectant.
• Apply a thin layer of paw balm to aid healing.
• If the injury is larger or inflamed, see a vet.

6. paw massages - an extra dose of care for your dog

Many dogs enjoy a gentle massage of their paw pads. Massages promote blood circulation and help to relieve tension:

• Use a small amount of paw balm or a mild care oil.
• Massage the pads with gentle circular movements.
• Stretch and flex the toes to loosen the joints.

Frequently asked questions about paw care

How often should I check my dog's paws?

After every walk, you should briefly check the paws for dirt and injuries. Intensive paw care is recommended about 1-2 times a week.

When do I need to trim my dog's claws?

If you hear a clacking sound on the floor when walking, the claws are too long and should be trimmed. As a rule, a trim is necessary every 4-6 weeks.

Are dog shoes useful?

Yes, especially for dogs with sensitive paws that react to road salt or hot asphalt. Dog shoes can also serve as protection in the event of injuries.

Conclusion: Well-groomed dog paws for a happy dog's life

Paw care is an important part of dog care and should not be neglected. Regular checks, cleaning and care ensure that your dog runs through life pain-free and happy. With the right care products and a good routine, you can provide optimum protection for your dog's sensitive paw pads!

These tips will keep your four-legged friend safe on the move! Do you have any special paw care products that you like to give your dog? Share your experiences in the comments! 🐾

Photo by Tamas Pap on Unsplash