Winter can be a real challenge for your dog’s paws. Cold weather, road salt, and sharp pieces of ice can irritate their delicate paw pads—which can lead to cracks, dryness, and pain.

Why do paw pads crack in the winter?

In winter, there are several factors that can put a strain on your dog’s paws:

1. Cold and dryness:Cold air and contact with icy surfaces strip the skin of moisture, leading to dryness and cracks.
2. Road salt:While road salt can help keep sidewalks free of ice, it’s a real poison for dogs’ sensitive paws. Salt irritates the skin and causes not only cracks but also painful inflammation.
3. Snow clumps:Snow and ice that get stuck between the pads and claws can further irritate the skin.

How can I help my four-legged friend enjoy the snow?

Paw care before a walk: Before you take your dog outside, apply a protective paw cream. This forms a protective layer on the skin and shields it from the cold, road salt, and snow.

Clean your dog's paws after a walk: Road salt and dirt can cause inflammation. Wash your dog's paws thoroughly with warm water after every walk and pat them dry. Removing salt and ice helps prevent irritation

Keep the hair between the paws short: Clumps of snow and bits of ice can get trapped in the hair between the paws. So keep the hair between the pads short to prevent snow and ice from getting stuck.

Will paw shoes help my dog feel more comfortable?

Dogs with healthy paws generally don’t need paw shoes during regular walks. It will also take a while for your dog to get used to the shoes. Since he can’t feel the ground directly, he might walk stiffly and awkwardly at first.

To help soothe your dog’s cracked and dry paw pads, you can apply our Doderm Hydro RepairGel after a walk. The gel contains plant extracts such as calendula and vitamins that stimulate skin regeneration. It also absorbs very quickly, leaves no greasy paw prints, and is safe for your dog to lick.  Would you like to learn more about how Doderm Hydro RepairGel can help regenerate your dog’s skin? Read our page on exactly howDoderm Hydro RepairGel works. If you have any furtherquestions, we’re here to help. We’d be happy to advise you!