Did you know that dogs that do not get their paws regularly cleaned can develop problems such as ingrown nails, bacterial infections, growths, and parasites?
Most pet owners realize that they need to groom their dogs on a regular basis, but fewer people understand the importance of taking care of their paws.
This is because it is common for dogs to damage their paws and pick up diseases when they go on daily walks and run around their yards.
To clear up confusion, we've written a guide that explains how to clean a dog's paws. Keep reading if you're interested in learning more.
Dirty Dog Paws: How Often to Clean Them
While the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends that dog owners bathe their pets at least once every three months, it is hard to find guidelines about how often to clean your dog's paws.
The best thing to do is check your dog's paws on a regular basis. If you often take your dog to run through the forest, you should check your dog's paws more often than if you only take your dog for walks around your neighborhood.
You should also check your dog's paws more often during hot summers and cold winters because extreme temperates can cause harm to their feet.
It is a good idea to wash your dog's paws every time you return from hiking in the mountain. Their feet often accumulate small splinters that can cause pain and become infected if you do not remove them.
How to Prepare for Cleaning Your Dog's Paws
Before you start cleaning your dog's paws, you'll need to look them over. You'll probably find plenty of debris that is stuck between their toenails and paw pads.
If you find something that does not belong on their paws such as a splinter or cactus needle, carefully remove it. If you are not able to do this with your fingers, use a pair of tweezers.
If your dog has long hair you will need to trim the hair on the bottom of its paws so that it does not get matted. By doing this, you will help to make sure your dog's paws stay clean.
Cleaning Your Dog's Paws
Some people prefer to wash their dog's whole body when they are cleaning their paws. But this is not always necessary.
It is usually a better idea to only wash your dog's paws and to bring your dog to a full-service dog wash to clean the rest of its body.
When you are cleaning your dog's paws, try to get rid of all of the harmful substances that are on their feet.
Those who have smaller breeds can wash their dog's paws in the sink. Those with larger breeds will probably need to use a tub. It is easier to clean your pet's paws if your tub has a detachable shower head.
It is important to take your time when washing your dog's paws. Dirt and salt will accumulate between their does, around the pads of their feet, and underneath their nails.
If you don't get rid of all of the debris on their paws, it will start to bother them.
Don't forget to thoroughly dry off your dog's paws before you let it back inside your house.
Look for Cuts on Your Dog's Paw Pads
Make sure to assess your dog's paws to make sure that they are free of cuts and lesions. Dog paws tend to crack in cold and dry environments. Snow and ice can also cause them to become cut and scrapped.
If your dog's paws have wounds, it is a good idea to apply a soothing paw balm or a paw wax for protection.
Caring for a Dog by Using Dog Booties
One of the simplest ways to protect your dog's feet from getting dirty is to buy a pair of dog booties. It is common for breeds such as huskies to wear these when they are mushing across ice and snow.
Keep in mind that it might take a little bit of time for your dog to get used to wearing them.
Dog Wipes
You can quickly and effectively clean paws that are covered with mud, sand, and dirty water by using dog wipes. You should consider putting these in your purse or backpack when you are traveling with your pet.
If your dog's feet are extremely dirty, you might need to upgrade to a large soap-covered washcloth.
If you don't feel like cleaning your dog's dirty paws, it is a great idea to take your pet to be washed and groomed.
Removing Snowballs from Your Dog's Paws
In the wintertime, snow often turns into clumps of ice between the pads of dogs' feet. This can be uncomfortable for your dog.
Don't try to pull the clumps of ice from your pet's feet. Instead, soak your dog's feet with a warm towel and massage their icy feet until the ice melts or falls away.
How to Clean a Dog's Paws
If you've been wondering how to clean a dog's paws, it is important to keep in mind that dogs are more likely to accumulate dirt and grime on their paws after they've been running through forests or pastures.
If you are looking for the right place to wash your dog's paws, don't hesitate to bring your pet to one of our self-service dog washes. Don't hesitate to find a location near you today.