Puppies always have those soft paws, but callouses begin to form as they grow and start running around. That rough texture is natural, but sometimes, a dog’s feet can get too dry or even crack for various reasons. This can feel very uncomfortable for your furry companion, but the good news is, we’ve got some at-home remedies to heal dry paws that every canine-owner should try.
Why Do Dogs Get Dry Paws?
Your pooch may experience dry paws for various reasons. Prolonged exposure to the cold can make our hands feel chapped, which is also true for your furry friend. The problem is, this issue doesn’t go away once the cold weather fades, since exposure to hot surfaces such as rock or sand can also lead to cracking.
Weather isn’t the only thing you have to worry about when it comes to dry paws; some breeds are naturally predisposed to this due to allergies or other genetic dispositions.
Top At-Home Remedies
Cracked paws and noses can be quite painful, and luckily, there are various at-home remedies to heal dry paws. Many veterinarians and other canine experts recommend using a dog-friendly product to help your dog’s paws:
- Coconut oil
- Shea butter
- Beeswax
Ensure your dog’s paws are clean and dry (a quick dip in warm water and a thorough towel dry should do the trick. You can then rub any one of these oil-based products onto your pup’s paws each night as needed.
Be aware that if your dog walks around immediately after a paw treatment, you may find a trail of oily pawprints around the house. If your dog tolerates it, placing a light sock over the paw can help the moisturizer absorb while preventing messes.
If you prefer, you can also make a simple homemade paw balm using natural ingredients like beeswax and coconut oil to soothe dry paw pads.
All that said, you shouldn’t use lotion meant for our bodies on your pup. While they’re safe for us, some ingredients can be harmful if dogs lick them off their paws during grooming. Natural options like the ones listed above are generally safer if accidentally ingested.
Tips To Prevent Dry Paws
Preventing dry paws isn’t always possible, especially if allergies are involved, but a few precautions can help protect your dog’s feet.
Dogs booties or protective balm can provide a barrier during cold winter walks or summer hikes. It’s also wise to check ground temperatures before heading outside.
For instance, before taking a walk along the beach together, place your hand on the sand for 10 seconds. If your hand feels uncomfortably hot, the sand could damage your dog’s paws.
Keeping your dog’s paws protected and moisturized can help ensure they stay comfortable and ready for all the adventures you share together.
