How to Properly Care for Your Dog's Paw Health?

As the weather gets hotter, animals' sweating frequency increases, and with it, that unmistakable smell. Many pet owners have been startled by their dogs' "athlete’s foot" or the unpleasant odor that comes with it. Dogs, being naturally active creatures, do not wear shoes due to their need for exercise and balance. Additionally, when we use pet nail clippers or grooming tools to trim the bottoms of their paws, it’s because dogs release sweat from their paw pads. When their paw pads frequently come into contact with the ground and experience friction, debris like stones, leaves, garbage, or even their own waste can stick to their paws, contributing to both the odor and dirt. At this point, many pet owners might be grabbing their grooming tools for a thorough cleaning.

In fact, regularly using pet nail clippers and grooming tools to trim the paw pads is key to maintaining clean paws. If a dog's paws are consistently moist, with long nails or dirt between the toes, it can lead to conditions such as interdigititis, redness, swelling, hair loss, or even decay. So, how can we use tools like pet nail clippers to care for our dogs' paw health? 1. Clean the Paw Pads When Entering or Leaving the House Whether it's during the pandemic or on a regular basis, dogs should have their paws cleaned after a walk before entering the house. Pet owners don’t necessarily have to use pet nail clippers or grooming brushes every day, but it's a good idea to keep disinfecting wipes handy to quickly clean the bacteria and dirt from your dog’s paws. If you prefer to use a wet towel to wipe your dog’s paws, make sure it's not too wet, and dry the paw pads immediately to prevent bacterial growth. 2. Regularly Check and Trim the Paw Pads Most pet owners are familiar with the importance of trimming paw pads. Whether you use traditional pet nail clippers or an electric nail grinder, make sure to trim along the bloodline carefully. Even if you accidentally injure your dog, remain calm and apply styptic powder while comforting your dog to avoid creating a negative association. Trimming a dog’s nails is a periodic task. In addition, pet owners can occasionally check between their dog's toes for any abnormalities, such as cysts, eczema, or mites. Regular checkups and proper medical intervention can help maintain your dog’s paw health. 3. Nourish and Care for Your Dog's Paws The body is the foundation of health, and the same applies to dogs. Beyond routine grooming and nail clipping, it's essential to provide dogs with the necessary nutrients for overall health. While we don’t encourage overfeeding, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet. For more refined pet owners, applying paw creams or other external care products can help nourish the paw pads. If you are a new pet owner, be sure to seek advice from professionals and avoid following unverified advice from others.

By regularly caring for your dog’s paws, you'll help ensure their comfort and health throughout their active life!