3 Things You Might Not Know About Paw Health

Your dog’s paws are way more than just cute walking pads — they’re complex, sensitive, and deserving of special dog care. While many dog owners remember to trim their dog's nails and wipe their paws after walks, there are a few surprising paw health facts that often go overlooked. Below are three things you might not know about paw health, plus dog care tips for grooming and ways to help keep those paws happy and strong all year round.

1. The “In Between” Is Where Trouble Hides

You probably already clean and inspect the surface of your dog’s toes and paw pads, but many problems begin deeper between the toes — those hidden crevices where moisture, debris, and yeast love to sneak in.

• Because these areas are tighter and more enclosed, moisture can get trapped after walks, baths, or wet weather. Over time, trapped moisture sets the stage for yeast overgrowth or bacterial infection in dog paws.

• Even when the visible pad looks fine, early signs like a little redness, odor, or your dog licking those in-between toe areas may indicate trouble brewing.

Regular dog grooming plays a key role here: when grooming your pup, be sure to carefully part the fur between toes, trim excess hair, and inspect the skin underneath. Combine that with regular dog care tips like wiping paws after walks with the help of Squishface Wrinkle wipes to help prevent hidden infections.

One tool that’s perfect after a quick wipe-down for those tricky spots is Squishface Toe Paste. Because it’s formulated to draw out excess moisture (thanks to kaolin clay and baking soda) while moisturizing and protecting with natural oils, it helps keep those toe crevices dry and healthy. Its fast-drying, non-staining formula makes it ideal for applying in between toes without turning paw care into a mess.

2. Paws “Sweat” More Than You Think

It may surprise you, but dogs do sweat — through their paws. The sweat glands (called merocrine glands) are most active on paw pads, and this moisture plays a role in cooling. On the other hand, that perspiration also means the paws are constantly dealing with micro-environmental moisture even before they hit snow or rain.

• If a paw is naturally more humid internally, then wet surfaces or damp grass can push moisture levels too far, making the paws more vulnerable to cracking, skin breakdown, or yeast growth.

• Dogs that lick their paws excessively might be trying to dry them or relieve itchiness caused by trapped moisture.

This fact underscores why protecting dog paws in winter isn’t just about external snow and salt — you also want to help them manage their internal moisture balance. That’s another reason Squishface Toe Paste is so useful: its combo of moisturizers + moisture absorbers helps balance things out, adding hydration to dry skin while wicking away excess dampness.

With dog grooming, check the pads for signs of over-sweating or unusual moisture buildup. And a good dog care tip: after walks, let paws air-dry before applying any protective balms or treatments.

3. Cracked Paws May Signal Bigger Problems

We often think of cracked dog paws as a superficial problem—just rough-looking pads. In many cases, cracks are your dog’s way of signaling deeper issues:

• Persistent cracking can point to nutritional deficiencies, allergic conditions, or systemic health issues.

• Cracks open pathways for microbes, which can lead to paw infections, cysts, or flare-ups in sensitive dogs.

• Overtrimming paw fur, aggressive walks on rough terrain, or exposure to harsh de-icing salts can worsen cracks.

This is another place where Squishface Toe Paste shines. The oils help soften and repair cracked skin, while the protective barrier keeps out irritants and bacteria. Because it’s safe if licked, you don’t have to worry that your pup’s licking will undo your hard work.

The Bottom Line:

Your dog’s paws do a lot more than just carry them through daily adventures — they’re a key part of your pup’s overall health. From hidden moisture between the toes to sweat glands that affect skin balance, paw care goes beyond a quick wipe.

Cracks, licking, and odor may be signs of deeper issues that need attention. That’s why regular dog grooming, close inspection, and the right products like Squishface Toe Paste can make all the difference. By keeping paws clean, dry, and protected, you help them fight against infection, irritation, and discomfort. Healthy paws mean a happier, more active dog — all year round.