How to Keep Your Dog's Paws Clean and Healthy

As dog owners we want our furry friends to stay healthy and happy, but sometimes we forget about one of their most hardworking body parts—their paws! Whether your pup loves to run through muddy puddles or take long walks in the snow, their paws are constantly exposed to the elements. Keeping those paws clean and healthy is important, not just for their comfort, but also for their overall well-being. Here’s a guide to help you keep your dog’s paws in tip-top shape!

picture of a dog's paw pad

 

The Importance of Healthy Paws:

Just like our feet, your dog’s paws are put through a lot of stress. They walk, run, and play on all kinds of surfaces, from smooth sidewalks to rough, rocky trails. This constant activity can take a toll on their paw pads, leading to dryness, cracks, and even irritation. Some dogs have sensitive paws that need extra dog care, while others might just need a little touch-up after every outdoor adventure. Keeping your dog’s paws clean, moisturized, and protected will make sure they stay happy and pain-free.

Why Do Dog Paws Get Dry?

Dog paw pads can become dry for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common culprits include:

  • Rough Terrain: If your dog loves to hike or run on rough, rocky surfaces, their paw pads are more likely to get scraped or dried out. The friction from these hard surfaces can cause the pads to lose moisture and become cracked.

  • Cold Weather: Winter is tough on dog paws. Cold temperatures can cause paw pads to become dry and cracked, and icy sidewalks often contain salt and other chemicals that can irritate your dog’s paws. This is especially true in areas that experience extreme winter conditions.

  • Hot Pavement: During the summer months, hot pavement or asphalt can also lead to dry paw pads. Prolonged exposure to heat can burn your dog’s paws and cause them to become dry and sensitive.

  • Lack of Moisture: Some dogs, especially those who don’t spend a lot of time outside, may not have natural moisture in their paw pads. Just like us, their skin can get dry and flaky without proper care.

  • Allergens and Debris: Paws are also prone to picking up allergens like pollen, dirt, and grass. These particles can get stuck in between the pads and cause irritation if not cleaned properly.

Keeping Your Dog's Paws Clean After Outdoor Adventures:

After a long walk or a fun-filled day at the park, it's important to clean your dog's paws to prevent any discomfort or infections. Dirt, salt, and chemicals can cause irritation, while debris can get lodged in between the paw pads. This is where Squishface Wrinkle Wipes come in handy! These gentle, fragrance-free wipes are perfect for cleaning your dog’s paws after every outdoor adventure.

Squishface Wrinkle Wipes are soft and effective at wiping away dirt and debris without causing any discomfort. They’re made with ingredients that are safe for your dog’s sensitive skin, so you can feel good about using them regularly. Simply wipe down each paw to remove any harmful substances and keep your dog’s paws nice and clean!

Hydrate the paws with Squishface Wrinkle Paste:

Once you've cleaned your dog's paws, it’s time to pamper them! Just like our skin, dog paw pads need moisturizing to stay healthy and soft. Squishface Wrinkle Paste is the perfect solution. This amazing paste is made with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and avocado oil, which are known for their moisturizing and healing properties.

To apply, simply take a small amount of the paste and massage it gently into your dog’s paw pads. Focus on the areas that are especially dry or cracked. The best part? You don’t need to wash it off! Just let it soak in and work its magic. If your dog tends to lick their paws, you can cover them with a baby sock to keep the paste in place and prevent any white paw prints from showing up on your floors.

Squishface Wrinkle Paste Before and After picture

 

Extra Tips for Protecting Your Dog’s Paws

  • Trim the Hair: Keep the fur around your dog’s paws trimmed to prevent dirt and debris from getting caught in it. This will also help with proper cleaning.

  • Check for Cuts and Cracks: Regularly check your dog’s paws for any cuts, cracks, or blisters. If you notice anything unusual, take action as necessary.

  • Use Paw Protection: If you’re heading out for a long walk on rough or hot terrain, consider using dog booties to shield your dog’s paws from irritation.

The Bottom Line:

Your dog’s paws are essential to their health and happiness, so it’s important to give them the attention they deserve. Whether it’s cleaning them after a walk with Squishface Wrinkle Wipes or moisturizing with the help of Squishface Wrinkle Paste, keeping your dog’s paws clean, soft, and healthy will make all the difference. A little extra love and dog care goes a long way in keeping your dog’s paws protected, no matter what adventures you have in store!

The next time you take your dog outside, remember that their paws need care too! With the right routine and Squishface products, you’ll help ensure that they’re comfortable and ready for whatever fun comes their way.