Winter walks don’t have to be a struggle! With a few easy steps, you can keep your dog’s paws comfy, safe, and ready for fun all season. Here’s how:
Trim Paw Fur Regularly
Keeping the fur between your dog’s toes trimmed short can help minimize the amount of snow and ice that sticks to their paws.
When long fur traps snow, it quickly hardens and becomes uncomfortable for your dog to walk on.
How to Do It
Use pet-safe grooming scissors and trim carefully, aiming to keep the fur level with the paw pad. Be gentle and avoid cutting too close to the skin to keep them comfortable.
Use Dog Paw Balm or Wax
Applying a protective balm or wax to your dog’s paw pads can create a barrier against harsh salt, ice, and chemicals.
These products help lock in moisture, which keeps their pads from drying out and cracking on those chilly walks.
Application Tips
Before heading outside, rub a small amount of balm or wax onto your dog’s paws, paying close attention to the pads.
This helps seal in moisture and protect against irritants. After your walk, you can clean the balm off or leave it for added hydration.
Invest in Dog Booties
Dog booties may feel like a fashion statement, but they’re also a fantastic way to keep your pup’s paws safe.
Booties protect against cold surfaces, prevent exposure to salt and chemicals, and keep ice from accumulating between their toes.
Getting Your Dog Used to Booties
Some dogs aren’t instantly comfortable with booties, so a little training can go a long way.
You can help your pup warm up to their booties by trying short indoor practice sessions and rewarding them with treats or praise.
At Ruffgers, our dog training in Naples, Florida can help dogs get comfortable with boots and other winter gear.
Wipe Paws After Every Walk
When you return from a walk, it’s important to clean your dog’s paws right away.
This helps remove any salt, chemicals, or dirt that may have stuck to their pads, which can cause irritation or ingestion issues if they lick their paws.
Quick Cleaning Tips
Keep a pack of pet-safe wipes or a damp cloth near the door so you can quickly wipe down their paws after each walk.
Pay extra attention to the area between their toes to ensure no residue lingers.
Limit Outdoor Time When It’s Extremely Cold
When temperatures drop below freezing, it’s best to limit your dog’s time outdoors.
Prolonged exposure to the cold can lead to frostbite or cold-induced injuries on their paws.
Alternatives for Exercise
If the weather’s too harsh, indoor play options can be a great way to keep your dog active and happy.
At Ruffgers dog daycare in Naples, Florida, pups can enjoy indoor playtime where they can stay safe, warm, and social without braving the winter elements.
Consider Doggy Daycare or Indoor Play
On those especially cold or snowy days, doggy daycare is a fun, safe alternative to outdoor exercise.
Daycare facilities provide space for your dog to run, play, and socialize without facing winter’s rough weather.
Ruffgers’ Facilities
Ruffgers dog daycare in Naples offers indoor play and training options to keep your dog entertained, active, and warm.
With skilled staff and plenty of room, it’s an ideal way to let your pup get their energy out when winter makes walks a bit too chilly.
https://ruffgers.com/2024/10/tips-for-caring-for-your-dogs-paws-in-the-winter/
