Your dog’s paws are more than just cute—they’re essential to your furry friend’s mobility, comfort, and overall health. Unfortunately, they are often overlooked in daily pet care routines. Both summer and winter bring specific challenges that can damage or irritate your dog’s paw pads. This guide will help you understand how to protect and maintain your dog’s paws through the hottest and coldest months of the year.
Why Paw Care Matters
Paws are constantly in contact with the ground. They face hot asphalt, icy sidewalks, rough terrain, chemicals, and more. Though paw pads are naturally tough, they are still vulnerable to burns, cuts, dryness, and infections.
Neglecting paw care can lead to painful injuries, changes in gait, and long-term joint stress due to compensatory movements. Routine care helps prevent problems and keeps your pup comfortable on all four feet.
Summer Risks for Dog Paws
Summer heat can be especially harsh on your dog’s paws. Pavement, sand, and even artificial grass can become scorching hot and cause painful burns or blisters.
🔥 Hot Asphalt
Asphalt can heat up to 135°F (57°C) or more under the sun. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s feet. Use the “5-second rule”: place the back of your hand on the pavement. If you can’t hold it there for five seconds, it’s too hot to walk your dog.
🏖️ Hot Sand and Tiles
Beaches and tiled patios absorb and radiate heat. A dog excited to play might not realize their paws are burning until it’s too late.
🥵 Overexertion and Dehydration
Long walks in hot weather can lead to friction burns on paw pads. Plus, dogs can become dehydrated or suffer from heatstroke, especially flat-faced breeds like bulldogs and pugs.
How to Protect Your Dog’s Paws in Summer
1. Walk During Cooler Hours
Avoid walking your dog during peak heat (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Early mornings or evenings are the best times to go out. Shaded trails or grassy parks are cooler options than pavement.
2. Try Protective Dog Booties
Booties made for summer walking have breathable materials and rubber soles that shield paws from hot surfaces. It may take time for your dog to get used to them, so introduce booties gradually.
3. Keep Paw Pads Moisturized
Just like human skin, dry dog paws can crack. Use dog-safe paw balms or moisturizers (never human lotion, which may contain toxic ingredients) to keep pads soft and healthy.
4. Clean Paws After Walks
Wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe after each outing. This removes debris, allergens, and chemicals from sidewalks that could irritate or be ingested.
Winter Risks for Dog Paws
While summer heat can burn, winter cold can crack. Snow, ice, road salt, and frozen surfaces are common threats to paw health during colder months.
❄️ Cold and Frostbite
Extended exposure to snow or ice can lead to frostbite, especially on the paw pads and toes. Dogs may not show pain until damage has occurred.
💦 Excess Moisture
Snow can get trapped between toes or in paw fur, keeping paws wet for hours. This creates an ideal environment for fungi and bacteria to grow.
🧂 Salt and De-icers
Sidewalk salt and chemical de-icers are not only abrasive but also toxic if your dog licks their paws. These chemicals can cause burns, dryness, and stomach upset.
How to Protect Your Dog’s Paws in Winter
1. Use Winter Booties
Insulated, waterproof dog booties protect paws from cold, salt, and ice. Make sure they fit snugly but comfortably to avoid slipping off or restricting circulation.
2. Trim Fur Between Paw Pads
Long fur between the toes traps snow and ice. Regular trimming keeps paws cleaner and drier and reduces the risk of irritation or infection.
3. Apply Paw Wax or Balm
Before walks, apply a layer of paw balm or wax to act as a barrier against ice and salt. Reapply as needed, especially after long outings.
4. Clean and Dry Paws Thoroughly
After every walk, rinse and dry your dog’s paws, especially between the toes. Keep a towel or dog paw washer near your door during winter.
Year-Round Paw Care Tips
No matter the season, there are habits every dog owner should adopt to keep paws in great shape all year.
👀 Regular Inspections
Check your dog’s paws frequently. Look for:
- Cracks or bleeding
- Swelling or redness
- Foreign objects stuck between toes
- Excessive licking or limping
Early signs of problems are easier (and cheaper) to treat than full-blown infections.
✂️ Keep Nails Trimmed
Long nails can alter your dog’s gait and put pressure on the toes. Trim regularly or have a groomer do it. Don’t forget the dew claws if your dog has them.
🧼 Clean Paw Habits
Avoid walking your dog in areas treated with harsh chemicals or fertilizers. Rinse paws when they get dirty or after contact with unknown substances.
🧍♂️ Use Non-Slip Mats
During both hot and cold months, floors can become slick. Use rugs or non-slip mats in high-traffic areas to help your dog move safely—especially important for seniors or dogs with joint issues.
When to See the Vet
Take your dog to the vet if you notice any of the following:
- Limping or avoiding putting weight on a paw
- Swelling or discharge
- Open sores or deep cracks
- Paw chewing or licking that doesn’t stop
- Bad odor coming from paws
These symptoms could indicate infections, burns, allergic reactions, or foreign bodies needing professional care.
Tailoring Paw Care to Your Dog’s Lifestyle
Every dog is different. Tailor your paw care based on your pet’s daily routine and environment.
- Urban dogs: Face hot sidewalks, salt, and pollution. Daily cleaning and protection are essential.
- Active dogs: Need durable pads for hiking or running. Inspect more often for cuts or tears.
- Senior dogs: Benefit from soft surfaces, trimmed nails, and gentle handling.
- House dogs with outdoor breaks: Still face seasonal hazards. Paw care isn’t just for adventure pups!
Keep Those Paws Happy Year-Round
Your dog relies on healthy paws to walk, run, play, and explore the world. With just a bit of seasonal awareness and routine maintenance, you can prevent injuries, infections, and pain.
Protecting your pup’s paws in summer and winter isn’t just responsible—it’s an act of love. After all, happy paws make for a happy dog.