Winter Walks: How to Protect Your Dog’s Paws from Ice and Salt

Winter walks can be magical, with snowy landscapes and crisp air that make every outing feel like an adventure.

But while we bundle up, it's easy to forget that our dogs’ paws need special care to stay comfortable and protected from icy surfaces and salty sidewalks.

Just like us, dogs can feel the sting of winter weather! From using paw balm and coconut oil to keeping a towel handy, a few simple steps can go a long way in keeping those precious paws safe and ensuring your dog enjoys winter walks to the fullest!

How Do Ice and Salt Affect Your Dog’s Paw Pads?

When the temperature drops, your dog’s paw pads are vulnerable to drying out and cracking, which can be painful and lead to infections.

Cold weather also increases the risk of ice balls forming between the paw pads, especially in breeds with longer fur. These can be uncomfortable and cause your pet to slip on icy surfaces.

Ice and salt can be harsh on your pet's paw pads, leading to discomfort and even injury. Rock salt, often used on icy sidewalks, can get lodged between your dog’s toes, causing irritation, rashes, and even gastrointestinal issues if licked off.

Some salts even contain ethylene glycol, a compound found in antifreeze, which makes the salt highly toxic if ingested. Ice also increases the likelihood of cracked paw pads due to cold temperatures, dry air, and the risk of slips and falls.

5 Signs Your Dog’s Paws Need Extra Care

1. Cracked or Dry Paw Pads: Exposure to cold temperatures and dry winter air can lead to cracked, dry paw pads.
2. Excessive Licking or Chewing: If your dog is licking or chewing their paws non-stop, it could indicate irritation from rock salt, ice balls, or even allergies. Excessive licking may lead to further damage, so it’s best to investigate this further.
3. Swelling or Redness: Swelling, redness, or inflammation on your dog’s paws could be due to exposure to chemical salts or foreign objects like ice pellets.
4. Nail Issues: Long or broken nails can make it uncomfortable for your dog to walk, especially on slippery surfaces. Regularly trim their nails, and if you notice cracking or bleeding.
5. Signs of Burns or Blisters: Ice and certain types of salt can cause chemical burns.

4 Essential Tips to Protect Your Dog’s Paws in Winter

1. Booties to Keep Your Dog’s Paws Safe

Dog booties are an excellent way to protect your dog's paws in winter. They provide a protective barrier against cold surfaces, ice, and salt.

Booties are particularly helpful for small dogs, senior dogs, and pups with sensitive paw pads, as they offer added warmth and prevent ice and salt from getting trapped between the toes.

Look for booties that fit snugly, provide traction, and don’t hinder blood flow. If your dog isn’t used to wearing booties, introduce them gradually to ensure they feel comfortable.

2. Wipe Your Dog’s Paws After Being Outside

After every winter walk, wipe your dog's paws with a clean towel to remove any rock salt, ice melt, or chemicals that could irritate their paw pads or be ingested if licked.

You can also use warm water to gently rinse away any remaining residue and dry the paws completely to avoid chapping.

Trim the paw hair to prevent snow and ice from clinging. For added care, inspect their paw pads for signs of cracking, swelling, or redness and address any issues promptly.

3. Discourage Your Dog From Eating Ice Melt Pellets

Ice melt pellets can be harmful to dogs, as many contain chemicals that irritate the paw pads and cause gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested. While pet-friendly ice melts are safer, they shouldn’t be ingested.

To prevent accidental ingestion, discourage your pup from eating any pellets or licking their paws after a walk. Instead, provide a treat or chew toy to keep them occupied.

4. Use Paw Balm and Moisturizers for Extra Protection

Applying paw balm or dog paw wax before winter walks helps create a thin protective barrier on your dog’s paw pads, reducing the risk of cracking and irritation. After cleaning and drying their paws post-walk, apply the coconut oil to lock in moisture.

When to Seek Veterinary Help for Your Dog’s Paws

• Bleeding or Deep Cracks in Paw Pads: Deep cracks or bleeding on the paw pads are signs of severe irritation or dryness, often worsened by cold weather and dry air. Applying paw balm or bag balm can help, but if cracks don’t heal, a vet can advise on topical treatments to prevent infection.
• Obvious Pain or Limping: Limping or reluctance to walk could mean something painful affects your dog’s paws, such as a nail injury or a paw pad burn. Dogs' nails and paw pads are sensitive, so prompt vet care will help if your dog is in pain.
• Blisters, Burns, or Chemical Exposure: Winter chemicals like ice melts can cause chemical burns on delicate paw pads. If you see blistering or your pet is clearly in discomfort after exposure, immediate veterinary help can prevent further damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Protecting Your Dog’s Paws

How Does Indoor Heating Impact Your Dog’s Paw Health?

Indoor heating keeps us cozy in winter but can dry out your dog’s paws. The dry air can cause paw pads to crack and dry out, which is uncomfortable and may lead to more serious issues if untreated.

To keep your dog’s paws healthy indoors, apply paw balm regularly to maintain moisture and prevent cracking. Placing a humidifier in your home can also add moisture to the air, benefiting both your dog’s skin and paw pads.

The shift between cold outdoor temperatures and warm indoor air can make paw pads more sensitive. Keeping paws moisturized with coconut oil will ensure your pup stays comfortable during winter. Be mindful of slippery surfaces indoors as well, especially if your dog’s paws are moisturized!

What are the Best Ways to Prevent Salt Burns at Home?

Choose a pet-safe ice melt if you’re using salt around your home. These products are less harsh on dogs’ feet and help reduce the risk of chemical burns and irritation.

Is It Safe for Dogs to Wear Booties All Day?

While dog booties provide excellent protection for winter walks, it’s best not to leave them on all day. Most dogs are more comfortable if the booties are removed after each outing to let their paws “breathe.”

If your dog needs protection at home (for example, on slippery surfaces), consider using non-slip socks that allow better ventilation. Regularly checking and caring for your dog’s paw pads ensures they stay healthy and comfortable indoors or out!

Keep Your Dog’s Paws Healthy This Winter With Volhard!

For more advice on dog nutrition, health, and training, contact us and check out our blog!

Volhard Dog Nutrition and its expert canine nutrition coaches are now offering online consultations to help more dog parents discover why and how to feed their dogs the healthiest foods!

Speaking to a Volhard canine nutrition coach will help you understand the inseparable relationship between healthy food, a healthy body, and a healthy mind.

If you want to contact one of our Volhard canine nutrition coaches, don't hesitate to access our consultation page!

References

1. "Distal Limb and Paw Injuries." The Veterinary Clinics of North America, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16787789/. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
2. Dr. Jerry Klein, CVO. "Protect Your Dog's Paws from Snow, Ice, Salt." American Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, 28 Dec. 2022, www.akc.org/expert-advice/vets-corner/protect-dogs-paws-snow-ice-salt. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
3. "Is Salt Bad for Dogs' Paws? The Dangers of Ice Melts." Bond Vet, bondvet.com/b/is-salt-bad-for-dogs-paws. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
4. "Swollen Dog Paw and Pads: Common Causes & Solutions." PawSafe, pawsafe.com/blogs/dog-healthcare/swollen-dog-paw-pads. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.