Winter walks are still important for our dogs — but cold, ice, snow, and road salt can be rough on their paws. Just like our own skin, dog paws can dry out, crack, and get injured when temperatures drop.
As we enter the official start of winter, here are some tips to keep your dog’s paws healthy, comfortable, and ready for winter adventures.
Why Winter Is Hard on Dog Paws
During winter, your dog’s paws are exposed to:
- Freezing temperatures
- Ice and packed snow
- Road salt and chemical de-icers
- Dry indoor air
As much as dogs love to play in the snow, these conditions can cause cracked pads, painful burns from salt, ice buildup between toes, and even infections if the skin breaks. Taking the time to make sure your dogs paws are properly cared for can go a long way to preventing these potential issues from becoming a reality.
Here are a few things that you can do to keep your dogs paws safe, and your dog comfortable and happy, this winter season.
Moisturize With Paw Balm
Cold air and heated homes can dry out paw pads quickly. A paw balm can help your dogs paws stay moist and healthy.
- Apply a dog-safe paw balm before walks to create a protective barrier
- Reapply after walks to help heal and moisturize
- Avoid human lotions — many contain ingredients that aren’t safe if licked
👉 Bonus tip: Put balm on at bedtime so it can soak in without being wiped off immediately.
Trim Fur Between the Toes
Long fur between your dog’s toes can trap snow and ice, creating painful clumps.
- Keep toe fur neatly trimmed (carefully!) This dog fur trimmer is a bestseller on amazon.
- Pay special attention to dogs with fluffy feet or long coats
- If unsure, ask your groomer to handle it during winter trims
Rinse Paws After Every Walk
Road salt and de-icing chemicals can irritate skin and are toxic if ingested.
- Rinse paws with lukewarm water after walks
- Gently dry between toes
- Check for redness, cracks, or sores
If you are looking for an easy way to wash your dogs paws (because lets be honest – they don’t love sitting still while we do it!) Check out this dog paw washer. It even comes with 3 aborbant towels so you can wipe your dogs paw when you are done.
Even a quick wipe with a damp towel is better than nothing.
Consider Dog Boots (Yes, Really!)
Road salt and de-icing chemicals can irritate skin and are toxic if ingested. You can protect your dogs paws by putting on dog boots. Not just adorable, they are also practical. Boots can help protect against:
- Ice and sharp crusted snow
- Salt and chemicals
- Extreme cold
Your dog may not feel comfortable in their boots at first. To help ease them into wearing them consider:
- Let your dog practice wearing them indoors first
- Start with short walks
- Make sure they fit snugly but are not tight
Watch for Ice Balls and Limping
If your dog suddenly starts lifting a paw or limping:
- Check for ice balls stuck between toes
- Look for cuts or cracked pads
- End the walk early if your dog seems uncomfortable
Persistent licking, chewing, or limping means it’s time to take a closer look — or call your vet.
A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Your dog depends on their paws for everything — play, walks, and daily adventures. A few extra minutes of winter paw care can prevent painful injuries and keep your pup happy all season long.
Cold weather doesn’t have to mean fewer walks — just smarter ones.