To protect your dog's paws in a Canadian winter, keep walks shorter on very cold days, wipe the paws after every walk to remove road salt and de-icers, trim the fur and nails between the pads, and check the paws for cracks or redness. Those four habits prevent most winter paw problems.
Snow, ice and salted sidewalks are hard on paw pads. Salt dries the skin, ice balls form between the toes of long-haired dogs, and some de-icing products irritate the skin or upset the stomach if your dog licks its paws. Here is a simple routine you can follow all winter.
Why are winter walks hard on a dog's paws?
Paw pads are tough, but they are not made for hours on frozen, salted pavement. The main risks are:
- Road salt and de-icers: they dry and crack the pads, and can sting small cuts.
- Ice balls: snow sticks to the fur between the toes and turns into hard lumps that pull on the skin.
- Cold: small, short-haired, young and senior dogs lose heat faster through their paws and body.
- Licking: dogs lick their paws after a walk and can swallow what is left on them.
How long should a winter walk be?
There is no single rule: it depends on your dog's size, coat, age and health, and on the wind chill. On very cold days, several short walks are often better than one long one. Watch your dog: lifting paws, shivering, slowing down or trying to turn back are signs it is time to go home. If you are unsure what is safe for your dog, ask your vet.
What should you do after every walk?
This is the most important step. When you get home:
- Remove snow and ice balls gently with your fingers or a towel. Do not pull.
- Clean the paws with lukewarm water, a damp cloth, or a waterless cleaner such as our waterless paw cleaner foam. Pet wipes like our no-rinse pet wipe gloves are handy at the door.
- Dry well between the toes, where moisture stays longest.
- Check the pads for cracks, cuts or redness.
Doing this every time stops your dog from licking salt off its paws and keeps the skin from drying out.
Should you trim the fur between the paw pads?
Yes, for many dogs. Long fur between the pads collects snow and turns into ice balls. Trim it so it is level with the pads, using small round-tipped scissors and going slowly. If your dog does not stay still, ask a groomer to show you how.
Why do nails matter in winter?
Long nails change the way a dog places its paw and give less grip on ice. They also spread the toes, which lets more snow pack in between. Keep nails short enough that they do not click on the floor. A quiet dog nail grinder makes regular short trims easier. Read our guide on how to trim dog nails at home for the steps.
Do dogs need boots or paw wax?
Some dogs do well with boots, especially on heavily salted streets or for long outings. They take practice: start indoors for a few minutes with treats. A paw balm or wax can also add a light protective layer before walks. Neither is required for every dog. If your dog's paws stay healthy with the cleaning routine above, that may be enough.
When should you see a vet?
Contact your vet if you see deep cracks, bleeding, swelling, limping, a pad that looks white or grey after the cold, or if your dog keeps licking or chewing one paw. Also call your vet if you think your dog has eaten de-icer or antifreeze.
Winter paw care checklist
- Shorter walks on very cold or windy days
- Remove snow and ice balls after every walk
- Wash or wipe off salt, then dry between the toes
- Trim the fur between the pads
- Keep nails short for better grip
- Check the pads once a day
Find more tools for this routine in our dog and cat grooming tools collection. Every order ships free across Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is road salt dangerous for dogs?
It can dry and irritate the paw pads, and it can upset the stomach if a dog licks a lot of it. Wiping the paws after each walk is the simplest way to limit both problems.
Can I use human moisturizer on my dog's paws?
It is better to use a product made for pets, because dogs lick their paws. Ask your vet if the pads are cracked.
How often should I check my dog's paws in winter?
Take a quick look after every walk and a closer look once a day.
Written by Hicham, Zootly. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your veterinarian.