Looking After Your Dog’s Paws

« Information About Framlingham Castle | Home | Paintings Of Framlingham Castle »

By peace | May 24, 2006

It’s important to have form a daily routine of checking your dogs paw health. This is suggested to avoid problems from happening. Most dogs paws are very sensitive, and they usually do not like them getting touched. However, if these check ups are done starting at a young age, it’s most likely the dog will get used to it and it won’t bother him as much. Examine the dog’s paws to see if any if his nails are broken and to make sure there aren’t any foreign objects stuck in his paws. Make sure to look in between the dogs toes as well to make sure there aren’t any cuts or balding spots in the hair that are swollen etc. If you were to find any of these lesions, take the dog to the veterinarian.

Check your dog after he has been playing and doing exercise to make sure there aren’t any cuts, scrapes, splinters, prickly seeds etc. especially when you have been in an open grassy area or forest etc.
Make sure to always dry your dogs paws very carefully after he has gone swimming, or has been playing or running over wet grass, after giving the dog a bath to avoid infections from happening.
Avoid letting your dog lick himself in any area of skin that is swollen, has an ulcer, or is irritated by bandaging the area up.
If you ever suspect that your dog has stepped on dangerous chemical products, don’t allow him to lick himself. Wash the dog’s paws very carefully with sponge and cold water and call your veterinarian.
Make sure to always cut your dogs nails. Very big nails tend to break and snag and they cause a lot of discomfort to the dog.

Often active owners and pets who run, hike, and exercise together may find that the dog’s paws may become sensitive, chaffed, or cracked. Particularly when starting your dog out on hikes and runs he may need some time for his paws to adjust and may also need some time to build up general endurance. Be aware that some dogs will continue with an activity even if uncomfortable or hurt because they want to please their owner.

Typically, indoor and less active pets need the most frequent nail clippings as the nail isn’t wearing away as it would normally. However, there also appear to be many pets that simply have fast growing nails that also need frequent trimming. Checking nail length once a month is wise, but if a pet is slipping or having other nail issues check more frequently.

There are some additional solutions to paw care issues too. Dog booties are a good choice for dogs that frequently encounter rough terrain or need extra protection due to a high activity level. They also are helpful if a paw is already injured, as paw injuries can heal slowly and it is nearly impossible to keep a pet off his paws.

Paw Wax is another helpful product. It coats the paw softening and protecting it, and is helpful for pets that skid or slip on slick floors. It also helps dogs whose paws are frequently dry or cracked. Healthy paws help keep pets happy. Some awareness and extra care is a great way treat your pet right.

Share and Enjoy: