Fun Facts about Dog Paws and How to Protect Them!
#1: Paws have 5 parts
Dog paws are made up of five main parts: claws, digital pads, metacarpal pad, dewclaw and carpal pad as illustrated below.
#2: Dogs sweat through their paws
Combined with panting, the sweat glands in their paws help to keep them cool. Just like humans, if a dog is nervous or stressed their paws will also exude moisture.
#3: Dog paws are weatherproof
The pads of dog paws are largely made up of fatty tissue to protect their feet from freezing in cold temperatures, which is why their feet don’t get cold when they’re prancing through the snow!
#4: But sensitive to heat!
Hot surfaces, such as pavements can cause their feet to blister and burn, so be careful when walking your dog during the summer days.
#5: Dog paws can smell like….
Popcorn? Doritos? Chips? As their feet are always in contact with the ground, they naturally pick up lots of microorganisms and when dogs sweat, the combination of bacteria and moisture creates a salty snack-like smell.
Dogs showing these symptoms may have burned paws:
- Limping or avoiding walking
- Licking or chewing feet
- Paw pads are darker in color than usual
- Pads are visibly damaged
- Blisters or redness
Avoid the Hottest Parts of the Day
One of the easiest things you can do is change up the times you go for long walks. Try going early in the morning and later in the evening, when the sun isn’t at its strongest.
Feel The Ground
When heading out for a walk, take a second to place your hand or bare foot on the pavement to check the heat. If you can’t tolerate the temperature for at least 10 seconds then it’s too hot for your dog.
Stay On The Grass
Stay away from hot pavements to avoid burning. Be sure to stay on the grass and stick to shady areas.
Moisturize Your Dog’s Paws
Use LOMI multi-functional healing balm to moisture their paws daily to help prevent injuries like cuts, cracking, or peeling of the paws. Minor injuries like this can make your dog’s paws more susceptible to burns and other serious problems. Shop Here!
Check Their Paws
After every walk, wipe your pet’s paws with a wet wipe when you get home, closely inspecting between the toes, all sorts of small things can get stuck between the pads on your dog’s feet. From pebbles to small twigs and foxtails, debris can make walking uncomfortable. We recommend using a 100% biodegradable Bamboo wipe filled with natural ingredients that is better for your pet and the earth. Shop here!
