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As a dog owner, you understand that your furry companion's paws are crucial for their daily adventures, from bounding across the garden to traversing broken branches in the woods. These remarkable paw pads let our dogs navigate all types of landscapes but face endless exposure to potential risks, dirt, and waste. Therefore, we will explore why keeping your dog's paws clean is vital in keeping your pet comfortable and healthy.
Firstly, let's understand a little more about the paw anatomy. A dog's paw is a complex structure containing bones, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels and connective tissue, all encased in a protective layer of skin and pad. The main elements include:
🜊 Digital Pads: Small, heart-shaped pads under each toe, providing cushioning and support during movement.
🜊 The Metacarpal Pad (Forelimb) & Metatarsal Pad (Hindlimb): Larger central pads contributing extra absorption and weight distribution.
🜊 The Carpal Pad: Located on the back of the dog's front legs, just above the paw, provides extra traction and stability when descending steep surfaces or making sharp turns.
🜊 Dewclaws: On some dogs are vestigial digits found higher up on the legs, which may not always make contact with the ground but can aid in gripping objects.
🜊 Claws: Provide traction and help dogs dig or grip surfaces.
These paw pads help support activities like walking on slippery surfaces to swimming in the sea. This leads us to note how tough by design paw pads are; they are also sensitive and prone to injury, making inspections and regular care essential.
Infections: The area between a dog's toes can become a warm, moist environment, making it a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and yeast. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, discharge, and a foul odour resembling sweaty socks. Regular cleaning and drying of the paws can help prevent these infections from occurring [1].
Pododermatitis: Pododermatitis refers to inflammation of the paws, causing redness, swelling, and discomfort. Common signs include limping or favouring one paw, continuous licking or biting at the paw, sensitivity to touch, and the presence of discharge or lesions. Pododermatitis can result from various factors, including allergies, infections or environmental irritants. [2]
Allergies: Dogs can develop allergies like us, caused by certain foods or environmental factors such as pollen, grass, or chemicals. These allergies often express themselves as itchy paws, leading to excessive licking or chewing, which can cause further irritation or secondary infections. Identifying and avoiding allergens, thoroughly rinsing soap from between the toes, along with a medical shampoo and proper veterinary care, can help address these symptoms. [3]
Injuries: Cuts, burns, or puncture wounds can occur when your dog steps on sharp objects, hot surfaces, or icy paths. If left untreated, these injuries can lead to infection or prolonged discomfort [4]. Regularly inspecting your dog's paws after outdoor activities can help identify and manage injuries before getting out of hand.
Weather-Related Issues: We do not need to worry about it too much in the UK; however, extreme temperatures can be particularly harsh on paws. Hot pavements in summer can cause burns, while cold weather can lead to cracked pads or even frostbite in some breeds. It is recommended to apply protective balms or use dog boots during extreme weather conditions to help safeguard your dog's paws.
Regularly cleaning your dog's paws offers multiple benefits:
🜊 Prevents infections: Removing dirt, debris, and harmful substances reduces the risk of bacterial or fungal growth.
🜊 Spot injuries early: Cleaning allows you to inspect the paws for cuts, swelling, or foreign objects, enabling prompt treatment.
🜊 Protects against irritants: Substances like road salt, pesticides, or sharp debris can irritate your dog's paws if left unchecked.
🜊 Improves hygiene: Clean paws reduce your dog's risk of tracking dirt or harmful substances into your home, maintaining a cleaner environment.
Inspect Paws Regularly: After walks, check your dog's paws for any debris, cuts or swelling. Pay particular attention to the spaces between their toes, as foreign objects can become lodged there.
Clean Gently: Use a damp cloth, warm water, or pet-safe wipes to clean your dog's paws. Ensure you clean between the toes and avoid using harsh soaps or chemicals that irritate their skin.
Trim Fur and Nails: Keep the fur between your dog's pads trimmed to prevent matting and the accumulation of dirt. Ensure their nails are clipped regularly, as overgrown nails can affect their gait and cause discomfort.
Protect in Extreme Weather: In hot weather, avoid walking your dog on hot pavement during peak temperatures; early mornings and evenings are safer times. In colder seasons, dog boots protect their paws from frostbite and road salt. Apply dog-specific lotion if your dog's paw pads appear dry or cracked. Avoid using human products, as some ingredients can be harmful to dogs.
Your dog's paws are not just tools for walking; they are vital to their health and happiness. Regular cleaning and care ensure your dog can explore the world comfortably and safely. By incorporating these simple steps into your routine, you can protect their paws and strengthen the bond you share.
- Megan Stuchfield
References:
**Wiberg, I. (2024) The Influence of Risk Factors on the Health of Dogs' Paws and the Importance of Clinical Evaluation of the Paw in Clinical Practice. Available Here (Accessed: 04 January 2025).
**Hunter, T., Ward, E. (2023) Pododermatitis in Dogs. Available Here (Accessed: 04 January 2025).
**Marsella, R., De Benedetto, A., and Pellegrini, L., 2015. Canine atopic dermatitis: Detailed guidelines for diagnosis and allergen identification. BMC Veterinary Research, 11(1), pp.1–15. Available Here (Accessed: 04 January 2025).
**Amalsadvala, T., 2002. Paw tissues unique; injuries need special care, attention. DVM360. [online] Available Here (Accessed: 04 January 2025).
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