For many dogs, there's nothing quite like frolicking in snow. Of course we need to limit the time outdoors and also take care of our dogs paws over the winter. Some dogs seem to be fine with walking on the cold pavement and salt while others are a bit more sensitive. Regardless of your dog's preference, winter is a time when many of us spend a bit more time tending to their paws. There's lots of products that will protect our furry friend's feet from the salt, snow and ice - everything from dog boots to paw creams. Of course, there's DIY solutions as well.
Does your dog come in with snowballs hanging off her body? Mine does! I've found that the quickest way to remove them is to melt them using lukewarm water. Of course, I can just let them dissolve but I hate stepping in little puddles of water. Another tip is to keep the hair at the bottom of their paws trimmed. I use a clipper to get the hair between the pads. This will prevent the snow from clumping on the bottom of their feet.
To remove the salt from their paws, you can set up a small washing station in your mud room. A friend of mine has taught her dog to walk through a foot bath and then stand on a mat waiting for her paws to be dried. Now that's a great, practical training trick!! If this is too much, then perhaps a product like The Paw Wash would be of interest.
You can also use paw protecting cream on your dog before going out for a romp in the snow. Our friends at Earth Rated has posted directions on how to make your own. I will be making a batch of this soon - they would make great little gifts for all my dog friends!
Does your dog come in with snowballs hanging off her body? Mine does! I've found that the quickest way to remove them is to melt them using lukewarm water. Of course, I can just let them dissolve but I hate stepping in little puddles of water. Another tip is to keep the hair at the bottom of their paws trimmed. I use a clipper to get the hair between the pads. This will prevent the snow from clumping on the bottom of their feet.
To remove the salt from their paws, you can set up a small washing station in your mud room. A friend of mine has taught her dog to walk through a foot bath and then stand on a mat waiting for her paws to be dried. Now that's a great, practical training trick!! If this is too much, then perhaps a product like The Paw Wash would be of interest.
You can also use paw protecting cream on your dog before going out for a romp in the snow. Our friends at Earth Rated has posted directions on how to make your own. I will be making a batch of this soon - they would make great little gifts for all my dog friends!
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