Protect Your Dog’s Paws from Snow & Ice

Keeping your dog’s paws safe from snow and ice is key to happy, healthy winter walks. Here’s a comprehensive guide packed with expert tips and extra details for real cold-weather paw protection

 

Why Winter Dangers Threaten Paws

When snow and ice blanket Luzerne County, your dog’s paws face hazards like:

• Sharp ice and crusty snow, which can cause painful cuts or scrapes.​

• Salt and ice-melting chemicals used on sidewalks and driveways, which can burn, irritate, or even poison dogs if licked off their paws.​

• Dry, cold air and wetness, which leads to chapping and cracked paw pads, making them sore and vulnerable.​

• Snow clumping, which gets packed between paw pads and fur, causing clusters of frozen discomfort.​

Paw Balm and Wax: The Next Best Layer

• Paw balms and waxes (like Musher’s Wax) moisturize, soothe, and protect against snow, ice, and salt without the hassle of boots.​

• Apply before every outing, rubbing gently on and between the pads and toes.​

• Reapply after long walks or when you notice cracking or dryness.

• Wipe excess balm away after walks to prevent residue indoors.​

• For more information on the best dog paw balms & wax, click here.

Dog Booties: The Gold Standard

• Fitted booties provide a barrier against almost every winter danger, from abrasive ice and harsh salts to freezing puddles.​

• Choose waterproof, flexible, and non-slip options for best results.​

• Help your dog adjust by introducing booties indoors with treats and encouragement. Practice short sessions, then build up to walks.​

• Always remove booties immediately after walks and clean them to prevent chemical exposure.​

• For more information on dog booties, click here.

 

 

 

Nail and Paw Hair Grooming

• Keep nails short and paw hair neatly trimmed. Long nails and extra hair catch snow and salt, letting ice balls form between pads.​

• Groom regularly to prevent uncomfortable clumps and keep pads in top condition.

Wipe and Inspect After Every Outing

• Always wipe paws with a damp towel when coming indoors, focusing between toes and under the pads.​

• Rinse with lukewarm water to clean off salt and chemicals. This reduces irritation and keeps paws safe.​

• Inspect paws for redness, cracks, cuts, or lodged snow. If they look sore, consult your veterinarian for advice.​

Limit Exposure in Extreme Cold

• Take shorter walks when temperatures plunge or icy conditions prevail.​

• Play indoors on frigid days or use shoveled, salt-free paths for potty breaks.​

• If your dog shivers, lifts paws, or seems uncomfortable, head inside for warmth and recovery.​

Choose Pet-Safe Ice Melt Products

• Use pet-friendly, chemical-free ice melts for your property to protect dogs from toxins and irritation.​

• Avoid walks near heavily salted areas or, if possible, carry smaller dogs over the nastiest patches.​

Maintain Overall Winter Wellness

• Dress your dog warmly with a coat or jacket if needed, especially for short-haired breeds.​

• Make sure your dog drinks plenty of (lukewarm) water. Cold weather can dehydrate too!​

• Feed a nutritious diet with healthy fats for skin and paw pad resilience in winter.​

Winter can be a wonderful time for both dogs and pet parents. A little prep will help paws stay soft, healthy, and ready for adventure. From all the team at ParaMount Pet Care, here’s to safe, snowy strolls and cozy indoor cuddles this season!

Hire A Pet Sitter & Dog Walker This Winter!

Looking for a pet sitter or dog walker this winter? Then look no further than ParaMount Pet Care! We are the leading pet care professionals in the Luzerne County area. All of our sitters are insured, bonded, trained in pet CPR & first aid, and dedicated to caring for your pets. 

We offer a wide variety of pet sitting services such as in-home pet sitting, routine dog walking, overnight stays, and more! Click here to see all of our services! Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 570-814-1037. We look forward to hearing from you soon! Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram too. We post adorable pictures of pets everyday that you won’t want to miss!