Tips for Nourishing a Canine's Paw Pad
In the colder months, the cold weather and hot pavements can cause dryness, cracking, or even burns on a dog's paw pads. During the summer, hot asphalt can have the same effect. To help combat these issues, there are several products available that can provide relief and protection for your pet's paws.
One such product is Musher's Secret Dog Paw Wax, which is moisturizing, healing, and all-natural. It's perfect for dogs with dry, itchy, and irritated paws. Another option is "Wagging Tails 6-in-1 Paw Butter 1.76 fl oz for Dogs & Cats", which contains mega moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil.
Palmer's for Pets Cocoa Butter Fragrance-Free All Over Relief Balm for Dogs is another option, made with cocoa butter and vitamin E, designed to soften and moisturize rough paw pads and give instant relief to a dog's paws. "Raw Paws Virgin Organic Coconut Oil for Dogs & Cats" is a suitable organic coconut oil for dogs and cats, as it is moisture-rich, antibacterial, and antiviral, and helps minimize the risk of infection.
Beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil are all natural remedies that can soften the skin, keep paw pads clean, reduce the risk of infection, and prevent the growth of yeast infections. Additionally, vitamin E oil or cream can also be used to treat dry dog paws.
It's important to note that there are several common causes of dry dog paws, including environmental factors such as cold weather, hot pavement, dry air, and rough surfaces. Exposure to chemicals and deicing salts can also dry and irritate paw pads. Allergies, both environmental, food-related, or flea allergies, often lead to itchy paws, causing dogs to lick and chew their feet, which worsens dryness and cracking. Contact irritants such as lawn chemicals, road salt, household cleaners, and other harsh substances can cause redness and dry, cracked paw pads. Infections (bacterial or fungal) can arise secondary to cracked paws, worsening the condition if untreated.
Preventing dry and cracked paws often involves protecting paws from harsh surfaces and extreme weather, keeping nails trimmed, avoiding harmful chemicals, and addressing underlying allergies or infections with veterinary guidance. If you notice any changes in the appearance of your dog's pads or they're licking or chewing the area more than usual, it's important to consult with a vet.
Specialized paw creams often combine various nourishing ingredients into a powerful formula that helps heal dry skin and create a protective barrier on a dog's paws. Pet MD Paw Balm 3-in-1 Nose/Snout & Elbow Moisturizer & Paw Wax is a natural and nontoxic formula made with 12 natural oils and butters that absorbs quickly to give immediate relief from dry, cracked, and irritated skin.
Dr. Woodnutt advises choosing a well-known brand for moisturizing balms that doesn't contain too many essential oils and other fragrances, as these can irritate a dog's feet, and using products marketed for dogs rather than generic human creams that may not be safe for ingestion.
In conclusion, there are several products available to help protect and treat dry dog paws. By being aware of the common causes of dry paws and taking steps to prevent them, you can help keep your dog comfortable and healthy all year round. If you notice any changes in your dog's paws, it's always best to consult with a vet to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your pet.
- Musher's Secret Dog Paw Wax is a moisturizing, healing, and all-natural product perfect for dogs with dry, itchy, and irritated paws.
- Wagging Tails 6-in-1 Paw Butter, containing shea butter and coconut oil, is another suitable option for both dogs and cats with dry paw pads.
- Palmer's for Pets Cocoa Butter Fragrance-Free All Over Relief Balm for Dogs is made with cocoa butter and vitamin E, designed to soften and moisturize rough paw pads.
- Raw Paws Virgin Organic Coconut Oil for Dogs & Cats, a moisture-rich, antibacterial, and antiviral product, helps minimize the risk of infection on dog paws.
- Beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil can soften the skin, keep paw pads clean, reduce the risk of infection, and prevent the growth of yeast infections on dog paws.
- Pet MD Paw Balm 3-in-1 Nose/Snout & Elbow Moisturizer & Paw Wax is a natural and nontoxic formula that combines 12 natural oils and butters, absorbs quickly, and helps heal dry dog paws, creating a protective barrier.
