Closer Look: Paw Care

Paw Care is the very foundation of your dog’s comfort and health.

We spend a lot of time talking about coats, nails, brushing, and baths — but one area that deserves just as much attention is your dog’s paws. Those little feet work hard every single day. They carry your dog across hot pavement, icy sidewalks, muddy yards, and everything in between. Keeping paws healthy is a simple but powerful way to support your dog’s overall comfort and mobility.

Why Paw Care Matters

Your dog’s paws are more sensitive than they look. Regular care helps prevent:

• Cracked or dry paw pads

• Irritation from salt, ice melt, or chemicals

• Burns from hot pavement

• Painful debris stuck between toes

• Overgrown nails affecting posture and gait

• Matting between paw pads (especially in curly or long‑haired breeds)

Healthy paws = a happier, more comfortable dog.

What You Can Do at Home

1. Check Their Paws Regularly

A quick look every day or two helps you catch issues early. Look for redness, swelling, cuts, debris, or anything unusual.

2. Keep Nails Trimmed

Long nails can change how your dog walks, put pressure on joints, and even cause pain. Regular grooming appointments help keep nails in good shape, but checking them at home is always helpful.

3. Brush the Hair Between the Toes

For dogs with longer coats, the hair between the paw pads can mat quickly. Mats here are especially uncomfortable because they pull with every step. A quick brush-through helps prevent this.

4. Moisturize When Needed

Dry, cracked pads can be painful. Pet-safe balms can help keep them soft and protected — especially in winter or after long walks.

5. Protect Against Weather

• Hot pavement can burn paws in seconds.

• Ice and salt can cause irritation and dryness.

• Wet, muddy conditions can lead to soft pads and trapped debris.

Wiping paws after walks and avoiding extreme surfaces helps keep them healthy.

How Grooming Supports Paw Health

During grooming appointments, I always check:

• Nail length

• Dewclaws

• Paw pad condition

• Hair between the pads

• Any signs of irritation or discomfort

Trimming the paw pads, shaping the feet, and keeping nails maintained all contribute to better traction, cleaner paws, and a more comfortable stride.

Paw Care Is Part of Whole‑Dog Wellness

Your dog uses their paws for everything — running, playing, exploring, jumping, and simply moving through their day. A little attention goes a long way in preventing discomfort and keeping them active and happy.

Healthy paws support a healthy dog, and I’m always here to help keep those feet in great shape.