UK winters are more wet and gritty than snowy, and that's exactly what's hardest on paws. Road salt, cold wet pavements, ice and mud can leave pads dry, sore and cracked. The good news is that a two-minute routine after walks makes a real difference. Here's ours (Hugo tolerates it in exchange for a biscuit).
Why winter is tough on paws
- Road grit and salt can dry out and irritate the skin on pads and between the toes. Dogs also lick their paws when they get home, and swallowing salt or de-icer isn't good for them.
- Cold and wet conditions dry out pads in the same way they dry out our hands.
- Ice and compacted snow can build up into hard balls between the toes, especially in hairy feet, and can cause small cuts.
- Mud holds grit and small stones against the skin.
A simple after-walk routine
- Rinse or wipe paws with lukewarm water (not hot) as soon as you're home, especially after walking on gritted pavements. A bowl of water by the door and an old towel works well.
- Dry thoroughly, including between the toes, where damp can cause soreness.
- Have a quick look at each pad for cuts, cracks or anything stuck between the toes.
- Apply a paw balm if pads look or feel dry. Rub a small amount in and distract your dog for a minute so it has a chance to soak in rather than being licked off.
Before you head out
- Trim the fur between the pads on hairy-footed dogs, so ice and grit have less to cling to. Ask your groomer if you're not confident doing it yourself.
- A thin layer of balm before a walk can help protect pads on cold days.
- Dog boots can help some dogs, especially those with sensitive paws. Introduce them slowly at home first.
- Avoid the worst of the grit where you can: grass verges and parks are kinder than freshly gritted roads.
Choosing a paw balm
Dogs lick their paws, so look for a balm with simple, natural ingredients and no strong fragrance. Our Natural Vegan Paw & Nose Balm is unscented and handmade in the UK with shea butter, candelilla wax and plant oils including jojoba, calendula and hemp. It also works on dry noses, and comes in a plastic-free tin. £7.
Other winter dangers to know about
- Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is extremely poisonous to dogs and tastes sweet, so they may lick spills on driveways. If you think your dog has swallowed any, contact a vet immediately.
- Frozen ponds and lakes: keep dogs on a lead near ice. Never go onto ice after a dog yourself; call the emergency services.
- Dark walks: a light-up collar or reflective lead helps drivers and cyclists see your dog.
- Feeling the cold: small, short-haired, young and older dogs may appreciate a coat and shorter walks when it's very cold.
When to see a vet
Speak to your vet if your dog is limping, keeps licking or chewing one paw, or has a cut that's deep or bleeding, swelling, a bad smell, or cracks that don't improve after a few days of care.
Common questions
Is road grit bad for dogs' paws?
Road grit and salt can dry out and irritate dogs' paws, and dogs can swallow it when they lick their feet. Wipe or rinse paws with lukewarm water after walking on gritted surfaces.
How do I treat my dog's dry, cracked paws?
Keep paws clean and dry, and apply a dog-safe paw balm once or twice a day. See your vet if the cracks are deep, bleeding or not improving.
Can I use human moisturiser on my dog's paws?
It's better not to. Human products can contain fragrances and ingredients that aren't meant to be licked. Use a balm made for dogs.