Your dog’s nails should just about touch the ground when she walks.
If her nails are clicking or getting snagged on the floor, it’s
time for a pedicure. Ask your veterinarian or a groomer for advice
about what types of nail trimmers are best for your dog and how to
use them properly.
Trim paw hair regularly to avoid painful matting. Simply comb hair
out, especially from between the toes, and trim even with the
pads.
Foreign objects can become lodged in your dog’s pads. Check
regularly between toes for foxtails, pebbles, small bits of broken
glass and other debris. These pesky items can usually be removed
with a pair of tweezers.
A dog’s pads can become cracked and dry. Ask your veterinarian for
a good pad moisturizer and use as directed. Avoid human hand
moisturizer, as this can soften the pads and lead to injury.
Similar to giving a human hand massage, a paw massage will relax
your dog and promote better circulation. Start by rubbing between
the pads on the bottom of the paw, and then rub between each toe.
Your dog will be forever grateful for the extra TLC!
If you’re about to begin a new exercise program with your dog,
start off slow. Paws may become sensitive, chaffed or cracked,
particularly when starting your dog out on hikes and runs.
It’s not unusual for dogs to suffer cuts or other wounds from
accidentally stepping on glass, debris or other objects. Wounds
that are smaller than a half inch in diameter can be cleaned with
an antibacterial wash and wrapped with a light bandage. For deeper
paw cuts, see the vet for treatment.
Imagine stepping barefoot onto hot pavement. Ouch! It is important
to remember your dog’s paws feel heat extremes, too. To prevent
burns and blisters, avoid walking your dog on hot pavement or sand.
Signs include blisters, loose flaps of skin and red, ulcerated
patches. For minor burns, apply antibacterial wash and cover the
paw with a loose bandage. For serious burns, visit your vet
immediately.
Winter is hard on everyone’s skin, even your dog’s! Bitter cold can
cause chapping and cracking. Rock salt and chemical ice melters can
cause sores, infection and blistering. Toxic chemicals can also be
ingested by your dog when he licks his paws. After outdoor walks,
wash your dog’s paws in warm water to rinse away salt and
chemicals. You may wish to apply Vaseline, a great salt barrier, to
the foot pads before each walk—or make sure your dog wears doggie
booties.
To reduce the risk of injury, keep your home and yard clear of
pointy bits and pieces. Be conscious to avoid hazards such as
broken glass and other debris when walking your dog. And keep this
simple tip in mind—if you wouldn’t like to walk on it barefoot,
neither will your dog!