How to protect your dog's sensitive paws in winter

The temperatures are dropping, the days are getting shorter, and the weather is becoming more changeable - autumn and winter are approaching. For you as a dog owner, this is an important time to prepare your four-legged friend for the cold months. Not only do your dog's fur and immune system need special attention now to get through the cold season healthy and fit, but also the dog's paws in particular. Here you can find out how to protect your dog's paws from the cold so that he stays full of energy even on frosty days.

A dog's paws are not only an important tool for movement, but are also very sensitive to external influences. Our infographic illustrates the anatomy of dog paws - from the pads to the claw bed to the toes. All of these areas fulfill different functions, but are all equally affected by winter stress. If you take a closer look at the structure of a dog's paw, you will certainly notice how important it is to carefully care for the little paws. This is the only way to maintain and protect important functions such as traction, stability or sensitivity.

They are particularly exposed to stress in autumn and winter: cold, moisture, salt and grit can damage the sensitive pads and even cause painful cracked skin. But with the right care tips and a little attention, your four-legged friend's paw health can be
preserve.

1. Protection from cold and moisture

The wet and cold weather can really take its toll on your dog's sensitive paws. Paw balm or special wax for dog paws forms a kind of protective film on the pads and helps to seal the sensitive skin. The balm prevents cracks caused by cold and wet weather and protects the surface of the pads by repelling moisture. In
In particularly cold regions or for sensitive dogs, paw boots can be useful. These protect against cold and mechanical influences such as road salt or grit, which are often spread on sidewalks and streets in winter.

2. Salt and grit – How to avoid irritation
Salt and grit can be unpleasant and painful for dogs. The small, sharp stones irritate the skin and salt can even dry out the pads and make them brittle.

Rinse paws after a walk: To remove any salt or grit residue, you should rinse your dog's paws thoroughly with lukewarm water after each walk. This prevents skin irritation and ensures that your dog does not accidentally lick the paws and absorb the salt. Afterwards, it is important to dry the paws thoroughly.

3. Regular inspection of the bales
Cracked and rough pads are not only uncomfortable for your dog, but also prone to small injuries, which in the worst case can lead to inflammation. Therefore, regular checks are crucial.

  • Check the pads for cracks and injuries : Especially in winter, it is worth checking the paw pads regularly for cracks, cuts or small foreign bodies. If you notice injuries, you can use an ointment that supports regeneration.
  • Trim claws: Claws that are too long can affect your dog's grip on slippery ground and change the way they walk, which can lead to excessive or incorrect strain. If you trim the claws regularly, you can counteract this and ensure that the weight is naturally shifted to the pads, relieving the pressure on the paw structure.

Everything important at a glance

In winter, your dog's paws need special protection from the cold, road salt and grit. Paw balm, regular rinsing after walks and thorough drying help to prevent cracks and irritation. Check the pads regularly for injuries and ensure resilient paws with good nutrition and targeted care - this way your dog will stay healthy and active even in the cold season.