All About Paws!
Most dog parents are already well acquainted with their dog's paws. After all, it's not every day that you get to see such an adorable sight! But did you know that there is more to your dog's paws than just cuteness? In fact, there is a lot that goes into keeping those little paws healthy and happy. Read on to learn all about dog paws!
Facts about Paws
Dog's paw pads are made up of thick, spongy tissue that helps to cushion the bones and joints from impact. The pads also act as shock absorbers, providing traction and helping to protect against injuries.
Paw Differences Between Dog Breeds
Just like humans, dogs come in all shapes and sizes - and so do their paws! Smaller dog breeds tend to have smaller paws, while larger dog breeds have larger paws. This is due to the simple fact that larger dogs need more surface area to support their weight than smaller dogs do. Some dog paws are also webbed. They are often seen in dog breeds that were originally bred for swimming, such as Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers.
Major Characteristics
There are four main characteristics of dog paws: size, shape, color, and texture.
Size: As we mentioned before, dog paw size can vary greatly depending on the breed of dog. However, all dog paws have one thing in common: they are much smaller than human hands or feet!
Shape: Dog paws are typically oval-shaped, with five toes on each paw. The fifth toe, known as the dewclaw, is often higher up on the leg and is not always touching the ground when the dog is walking.
Color: Paw pads come in a variety of colors, including black, pink, tan, and even blue!
Texture: The texture of a dog's paw pads can also vary depending on the breed. Some dogs have rough paw pads while others have smooth paw pads.
Common Paw Issues in Dogs
Just like the rest of their bodies, dog paws are susceptible to a variety of health problems. Some of the most common paw issues include:
Hyperkeratosis: Hyperkeratosis is a condition that causes the paw pads to become thick and calloused. It is often caused by exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as cold temperatures or salt on sidewalks in the winter.
Interdigital Furunculosis: Interdigital furunculosis is a bacterial infection that commonly affects dog paw pads. It is characterized by red, swollen, and painful bumps between the toes.
Special Care
While most dog paws are tough and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, they still need special care to stay healthy. Here are a few tips for keeping your dog's paws in tip-top shape:
- Check your dog's paw pads regularly for any cuts, cracks, or other injuries.
- Keep your dog's nails trimmed to avoid overgrowth and cracking.
- Avoid walking on hot pavement or in harsh weather conditions.
- If your dog has hyperkeratosis, talk to your veterinarian about treatment options and general dog care.
The Bottom Line
For a natural shield against paw infection, try our fragrance-free Squishface Wrinkle Paste. Our Paste contains natural zinc oxide and soothing coconut oil, targeting fungus and prevents infection while providing soothing comfort. It creates a water-repellent barrier to keep bacteria from taking hold. For best results we recommend cleaning the area of debris and applying fresh Wrinkle Paste once daily for 7 to 10 days.
Check Out this Before and After using Wrinkle Paste on this doggo's paws!
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your dog's paws healthy and happy for years to come! For more tips, tricks, and all things Squishface, don’t forget to visit the blog every week!
