Dog Foot Care Basics

How To Keep Paws In Top Condition

Active humans have to upgrade their footwear regularly. But most dogs don’t wear shoes, so how do you keep their feet in top condition?

In most cases, the guiding principles are pretty simple and come down to three basic things.

1. Keep their nails trimmed.

Nail trimming isn’t high on anyone’s list of favorite things to do, especially a dog’s. However, nails that grow too long are prone to damage, including splitting, breaking, tearing, and peeling. Plus, they throw off a dog’s body mechanics, which can add up to additional injuries.

If your dog hates trimming, try turning it into a game by using a scratchboard. Or make it easier on yourself – schedule regular appointments at The Canine Spa, and we’ll keep your pup’s nails in tip-top shape for you!

2. Improve their diet.

Do your dog’s nails keep splitting, peeling, or breaking despite regular trimming? It’s time to take a closer look at their diet.

Your vet can offer personalized guidance based on your feeding regimen. However, you can improve their diet by providing animal-protein sources like fish, eggs, and meat or supplementing their meals with fish oil, biotin, or collagen.

Before adding supplements to your dog’s diet, talk to your vet to make sure it’s a safe solution. They can also look for underlying conditions that could be impacting your pooch’s foot and nail condition.

3. Pamper those paws.

Finally, your dog’s feet get put through their paces on a daily basis – literally. And certain conditions can be tough on their tootsies.

Whether your dog is out in cold weather, heat, rough terrain, or exposed to chemically treated surfaces, you can take action. First, try introducing them to booties or outdoor socks for an added layer of protection.

If they won’t wear booties, apply paw-protective products before going out, like Musher’s Secret. This formula, which is safe for dogs, combines natural waxes and oils that offer protection outdoors and help moisturize pads and toenails.

These three steps can help keep your dog on their feet, pain-free. But talk to your vet if your dog has persistent issues or injuries that require expert care.