Keeping Paw Pads Healthy Through the Minnesota Winter

Minnesota winters bring some of the harshest conditions for dogs. Snow, ice, and road salt can cause cracking, dryness, and irritation, making it essential to adopt a winter-specific care routine. Here’s how to protect your furry friend’s paws through the cold months.

Common Winter Paw Problems

Cracking and Dryness: Harsh cold and low humidity sap moisture from paw pads, leading to painful cracks.
Salt and De-icers: Chemical de-icers can burn paw pads or cause gastrointestinal issues if ingested.
Frostbite: Prolonged exposure to icy surfaces increases the risk of frostbite on toes and pads.

Taking steps to protect your dog's paws in these conditions is essential not only for their comfort but also for their health. With proper care and the right precautions, your pet can enjoy outdoor activities without suffering the damaging effects of Minnesota's winter weather.

1. Hydration and Moisturization

Cold weather can cause your dog's paw pads to dry out, crack, and become painful. Regularly apply a paw balm or moisturizer made specifically for dogs, which helps keep their pads supple and protects against abrasions. Products containing natural waxes are particularly effective.

According to veterinary experts, paw pads need to retain moisture to stay resilient against freezing temperatures and rough surfaces, so consider applying balm before and after outdoor walks. Haarstad Veterinary Dermatology recommends Dermoscent Bio Balm and it is available for purchase in our online pharmacy. If you aren’t a current patient and would like to purchase this product, reach out to us.

2. Protective Gear

Booties are a great option to shield paw pads from snow, ice, and harmful chemicals. If your dog resists wearing booties, use a paw wax for protection. High-quality products create a barrier that repels water and keeps salt from penetrating the skin. Dermoscent Bio Balm is great to use as a protective barrier as well as a moisturizer.

3. Safe Walking Practices

Avoid walking your dog on salted sidewalks. Rock salt and chemical de-icers can irritate paw pads and even lead to burns. Opt for pet-safe de-icers on your property and stick to shoveled, less-treated pathways during walks..

4. Post-Walk Paw Cleaning

After each walk, rinse your dog's paws with warm water to remove salt, ice, and debris. Dry them thoroughly to prevent moisture from causing further irritation. Regular cleaning also helps reduce the risk of your dog licking their paws and ingesting harmful substances like antifreeze.

5. Diet and Nutrition

Research done by Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine showed that proper nutrition helps maintain the overall health of your dog’s skin and paw pads. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, are particularly beneficial for maintaining the elasticity and resilience of paw pads during dry, cold months.

6. Monitoring and Care

Check your dog's paws regularly for cuts, cracks, or redness. If you notice anything unusual, clean the affected area and apply veterinarian recommended antiseptic made for pets. Avoid products that contain alcohol as they can sting. Persistent issues should be evaluated by your veterinarian

Emergency Care for Winter Paw Injuries

Salt Burns: Wash paws immediately with warm water and apply a pet-safe moisturizer. Seek veterinary care if irritation persists.
Cracked Pads: Clean the area, apply a healing balm
Frostbite: Warm the affected area gradually with warm (not hot) water and contact your vet.

Choosing the Right Products

Use paw balms with natural, non-toxic ingredients like the Dermoscent Bio Balm we mentioned above. Let us know if you’d like to purchase and we can get you into our online pharmacy!
Avoid de-icers with harmful chemicals; choose pet-safe alternatives for your driveway. A couple of great options include Morton Safe T Pet Ice Melt or Harris Kind Melt.

Take proactive steps to protect your dog’s paw pads to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the winter. Whether it’s booties, balms, or regular maintenance, a little care goes a long way in keeping those paws healthy all season.

Online Resources for Additional Information