Dog paws do a lot of work. A few simple habits can prevent irritation from hot pavement, winter salt, and dry weather.
Important: If you see blistering, bleeding, swelling, sudden limping, or your dog won’t put weight on a paw, contact your veterinarian.
Key takeaways
- Check paws regularly, especially in extreme heat or cold.
- Avoid hot surfaces like asphalt and concrete when temperatures rise.
- In winter, salt and de-icers can irritate paws and may be harmful if licked off.
- Wipe paws after walks, and use a pet-safe paw protectant if pads get dry.
The 2-minute paw check (daily or after walks)
- Look at the pads for cracks, redness, or worn spots.
- Check between toes for debris, foxtails, or “stickers.”
- Scan nails quickly (clicking on hard floors often means it’s time to trim).
- Notice licking and chewing. Persistent licking can signal irritation or pain.
Hot pavement basics (summer paw protection)
- Avoid walking on hot surfaces like asphalt when the sun is strongest.
- Choose early morning or evening walks, and stick to grass or shade when possible.
- Keep walks shorter during heat and bring water for longer outings.
- If your dog starts limping, lifting a paw, or pads look red or blistered, stop and contact your veterinarian.
Winter basics (salt, de-icers, and ice)
- Salt and de-icing chemicals can irritate paw pads.
- After walks, wipe or rinse paws to remove salt and chemicals, then dry thoroughly.
- Consider booties for a physical barrier on salty sidewalks and snowy days.
- Use pet-friendly ice melts when possible.
Dry or rough pads (what helps)
- Dry weather and winter conditions can dry out paw pads.
- A pet-safe paw balm can help create a protective barrier and keep pads conditioned.
- Avoid random household creams, especially if your dog is likely to lick them off.
What to avoid
- Do not let your dog drink puddles or lick unknown substances off paws during winter walks.
- Do not ignore sudden limping or repeated paw licking.
- Do not force long walks on hot pavement.
Product links
If you want an easy way to support paw comfort without overthinking it:
Note: For broken skin, deep cracks, bleeding, swelling, or signs of infection, contact your veterinarian.
Our impact
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When to call the vet
Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
- Sudden limping or refusing to walk
- Blisters, bleeding, or swelling on paw pads
- A torn nail or bleeding around the nail
- Persistent licking/chewing of paws
- Discharge, foul odor, or worsening redness
Sources
- AAHA: Protecting paws on hot surfaces
- AVMA: Warm weather pet safety
- ASPCA: Cold weather safety tips
- ASPCA: Tips for safely using de-icers around your canine
- VCA: Cold-weather paw protection strategies
Last reviewed: December 2025