You're bundled up and ready to hit the winter trails to peep at snow-covered evergreens and soak up bonding time with your four-legged best friend. But what about their paws? Do dogs in snow need paw prep before going outside?
The short answer is yes!
Paw injuries are more common in winter thanks to slippery ice and snow-covered surfaces, the use of ice-melting chemicals, cold temperatures and hidden hazards lurking under the snow. Learn more about preventing paw injuries such as cuts, irritation or frostbite and how to identify when treatment for your dog is needed.1
Protect Your Dog's Paws in Snow or Cold
As Benjamin Franklin said, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.2 Before heading outside for an adventure with your dog, check the weather. Tolerance to the cold varies from dog to dog based on breed, size, coat type and whether the pet is acclimated to cold conditions.3
For small dogs with thin coats (like a Chihuahua), being outdoors in 30 to 40 F temperatures can be potentially unsafe. When the thermometer dips below 25 F, it's too dangerous for small dogs to go outdoors for longer than a quick potty break. Medium-size dogs may be able to tolerate 15 to 20 F temperatures for short periods of time, though it's important to use caution.3
Large-breed dogs do well until temperatures are between 20 and 35 F, which can be potentially unsafe. And at 15 F, your dog is in the danger zone when it comes to possibly getting frostbite or hypothermia.3
If you've determined it's safe to go outside with your dog, here's how you can best prepare for a successful walk with less risk of paw injuries.
1. Trim the hair on the paws to prevent ice buildup
Carefully use scissors to cut the fur protruding from between the toes (or ask a groomer to assist you). Then, apply dog paw wax to hydrate the pads, create a barrier of protection from the ground and discourage ice accumulation on the cut fur stubble.4
2. Apply dog booties for added protection
The fleece or flannel lining will keep paws warm, and tread on the soles help prevent paw pad scratches or slips. Check your dog's booties every 15 minutes for proper fit, especially if they've been running. Like kids, dogs in snow randomly lose shoes too!4
3. Wipe down or wash paws after each outing
Using a warm water-moistened washcloth helps remove ice clumps from paws, gently warms the feet and helps remove any salt or chemical de-icing chemicals.4
4. Adjust the length of walks
It's winter! You might simply want to shorten your walks to avoid prolonged exposure to harsh conditions and keep you and your pet safe. Try going for two short walks instead of one long one in the winter.5
5. Monitor your dog
If your pet isn't wearing foot protection, pay extra close attention to the following signs of dog paw injuries or being too cold:6
- Slowing down on the walk
- Whining or being vocal to get your attention
- Shivering or rubbing against you for warmth
- Becoming weak, limping or holding a paw up
At the first sign of discomfort, it's time to head indoors.
6. Keep your dog hydrated
Even though it's winter, walking outside can work up a thirst for both you and your pet. When you stop to take a drink, be sure to offer water to your pet as well. Staying hydrated keeps your pet healthy all around.
How to Identify and Treat Winter Dog Paw Injuries
Being mindful of how your dog is managing time outside can alert you to possible paw issues. In addition to watching for the signs of discomfort mentioned earlier, keep an eye out for redness, bleeding, paw licking and obvious injury.
Paw cuts and scrapes
Do you see a tear or cut on the dog's paw? Clean the wound with warm water and use tweezers to gently remove any foreign objects lodged in the paw. Then, wash the area with a mild antibacterial soap to disinfect it. Use a soft, clean towel to apply pressure to the area. If the wound doesn't stop bleeding in 10 to 15 minutes, a veterinarian will need to tend to the injury.7 Finally, apply a gauze bandage (don't place it too tight!) and change it daily to keep the area clean.7
Paw frostbite
If you don't see a cut, you might wonder if your pet is experiencing frostbite on their paws. Frostbite can occur on the paw pads, ears and tail. The skin will become pale at first, but once the pet warms up indoors, the skin reddens, swells and peels. This can be quite painful, but don't allow your dog to excessively lick the affected area. Apply a warm washcloth to the area. If the skin turns dark instead of red, it's time to call the veterinarian for assistance.8
Chemical poisoning
Did you notice your pet cleaning his paws by licking? It's possible they stepped in salt or ice-melting chemicals. These substances can cause a painful burning sensation on the paw pads. If you believe your pet came in contact with these chemicals, rinse the paws immediately, then carefully wash them with mild soap and use a warm water rinse.7
If she begins acting unusual—excessive licking, drooling and lapping at the air, coughing, vomiting or drinking excessive amounts of water—call your veterinarian immediately and explain that your pet may have ingested salt or ice-melt chemicals on your winter walk. They can guide you in managing possible poisoning or direct you to the office for follow-up care.
Be Ready for Winter Weather as a Dog Parent
Keeping your dog's paws safe in the winter ensures that you and your canine companion can go for walks regularly on warmer winter days. As you cuddle up this evening, take a moment to do a quick check of your dog's paws. Does the fur need trimming between the toes? Could the pads use moisturizing cream to heal dry winter weather cracking? Soothing the paws keeps them in tip-top shape and ready for your next outdoor adventure.
A Note From Pets Best
Be ready for the unexpected this winter. Learn more about dog insurance from Pets Best so you can focus on your dog's medical needs, not the vet bill.
Sources
1 "9 Tips for Protecting Your Dog's Paws in the Winter," (11/2020), Bond Vet, https://bondvet.com/b/9-tips-for-protecting-your-dogs-paws-in-the-winter, accessed January 28. 2023.
2 “On Protection of Towns from Fire, 4 February 1735," Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0002, accessed February 9, 2023.
3 "When is it Too Cold For Your Dog To Be Outside?" Nikki Wardle (2/2019), Intermountain Pet Hospital, https://www.intermountainpet.com/en-us/blog/when-is-it-too-cold-for-your-dog-to-be-outside, accessed January 28, 2023.
4 "How to Protect Your Dog's Paws in Winter," Ken Knapp, REI, https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/how-to-protect-your-dogs-paws-in-winter.html, accessed on January 28, 2023.
5 "Protect Your Dog's Paws from Snow, Ice, Salt," Dr. Jerry Klein, CVO (12/2022), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/vets-corner/protect-dogs-paws-snow-ice-salt/, accessed on January 28, 2023.
6 "How Cold Is Too Cold For Your Dog This Winter?" The Natural Pet Doctor, https://thenaturalpetdoctor.com/how-cold-is-too-cold-for-your-dog-this-winter/, accessed on January 28, 2023.
7 "First Aid for Torn or Injured Foot Pads in Dogs," Lynn Buzhardt, DVM, VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/first-aid-for-torn-or-injured-foot-pads-in-dogs, accessed on January 28, 2023.
8 "What does winter do to your dog's paws?" Burgess Pet Care, https://www.burgesspetcare.com/blog/dogs/what-does-winter-do-to-your-dogs-paws/, accessed on January 28, 2023.