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When the temperature drops and sidewalks get slick, your dog’s paws take the brunt of the season. Ice, snow, and salt can cause dryness, cracking, or irritation—but with the right care, you can keep your pup walking comfortably all winter long. Whether you’re braving snowy sidewalks or just heading out for a quick potty break, a little prep goes a long way.
 

Before and During Walks

A little prevention can help keep paws healthy and pain-free during cold-weather adventures.

Apply Paw Balm or Wax: Before heading outside, apply a paw balm or wax to create a protective barrier against salt, ice, and rough surfaces. This helps lock in moisture and prevents cracking.

Use Booties: If your dog tolerates them, boots are a great option for extra protection. They prevent contact with cold ground and harmful de-icing chemicals while keeping paws clean.

Trim Fur: Keep the fur between your dog’s toes trimmed to prevent ice balls from forming and pulling at the skin.

Limit Time Outside: Especially for smaller or short-haired dogs, keep walks shorter in extreme cold. Frequent but brief outings are better than one long trek in freezing temps.
 

After Walks

The care doesn’t end when you come inside! Cleaning up properly helps prevent irritation or infection.

Rinse Paws: Use a warm, damp cloth or a paw washer like the MudBuster to remove salt, dirt, and debris. This step helps prevent chemical burns or irritation. Make sure to dry thoroughly yet gently with a towel—moisture left behind can lead to cracking.

Reapply Balm: Once clean and dry, apply another layer of paw balm to restore moisture and soothe any dryness.
 

Ongoing Care

Consistency keeps paws resilient throughout the winter months.

• Inspect Regularly: Check for cracks, cuts, or redness—early attention prevents small issues from becoming painful.
• Keep Hydrated: Just like humans, pets need plenty of water in winter. Hydration supports healthy skin and paw pads.
• Trim Nails: Keep nails short to reduce splitting and maintain a proper gait, especially on icy surfaces.
• Use Paw-Safe Ice Melt: Make sure any salt you spread on driveways or sidewalks is labeled pet safe to protect both paws and the environment.
   

What to Watch For

Even with good care, the cold can still be tough on sensitive paws.

• Limping or Licking: Excessive licking or limping may indicate irritation, pain, or contact with salt.

• Redness or Cracks: These are early signs of dryness or chemical irritation. Apply balm and give paws a rest day if needed.

If symptoms persist, check with your veterinarian for guidance.

 

The Bottom Line

Winter walks don’t have to mean dry, cracked paws. With the right gear, a simple routine, and regular maintenance, your dog can stay active, happy, and cozy all season long.

Stop by Two Bostons for paw-safe products and expert recommendations to keep your best friend’s paws protected from nose to tail this winter.