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When it comes to your dog’s paws, it’s important not to underestimate just how they do. Whether it’s playing fetch, stick chasing, playtime, or long walks at the park… your dog’s paws are the key to limitless fun, love, and fulfillment.

Paws are nature’s little miracles, providing insulation, traction, balance, and shock absorption. Even though they are durable and designed to withstand a lot, paw problems can still be a common issue for many pups. 


When something goes wrong, it’s not going to be easy for your pooch. Here are 5 top tips for proper paw care, to help you tackle common injuries or issues.

1) Know The Signs

Your pooch might have a sore paw if they have any of the following symptoms:


  • Licking and chewing a paw excessively
  • Limping
  • Bleeding
  • Redness or inflammation
  • A bad smell coming from their toes!


2) Check Carefully

While it’s tempting to get up close and personal right away, many dogs won’t like having their sensitive feet handled. 


Start slowly, and preferably when your dog is sleepy or calm and relaxed. 


Be careful! Sore paws can be hard for a pooch, so they might be more grumpy than usual. 

3) Determine The Source

Some common things to look for include:

  • Matting - any matted hairs could be putting excess pressure on delicate paws
  • Redness - irritation, allergies, or blisters can present on this delicate area of skin
  • Bruising - hard surfaces or an amped-up exercise routine can result in soreness
  • Bleeding - cuts from rough surfaces can happen
  • Discharge - there may be a cyst or growth that has developed 
  • Torn Nails - a torn nail niggles all of us now and again, and it’s no different for your pup
  • Foreign objects- your dog could have glass, a stone, or a large seed stuck between his or her toes
  • Insect or spider bites

3) Determine The Source

Some common things to look for include:

  • Matting - any matted hairs could be putting excess pressure on delicate paws
  • Redness - irritation, allergies, or blisters can present on this delicate area of skin
  • Bruising - hard surfaces or an amped-up exercise routine can result in soreness
  • Bleeding - cuts from rough surfaces can happen
  • Discharge - there may be a cyst or growth that has developed 
  • Torn Nails - a torn nail niggles all of us now and again, and it’s no different for your pup
  • Foreign objects- your dog could have glass, a stone, or a large seed stuck between his or her toes
  • Insect or spider bites

4) Apply TLC

If you need to, you can apply a little first aid until you can visit your vet. With a minor cut or blister, it’s best to clean it out with a gentle wash and bandage the area as best you can. 


If possible, remove any trapped object with tweezers and wash the paw with warm, soapy water.


Soaking the paw in an Epsom salt bath can sometimes help ease pain and swelling. Ten minutes in warm water can be a useful short-term solution.


A dog’s pads can become cracked and dry. Avoid human hand moisturizer, but using a dog-friendly lotion can keep paws mobile and healthy.


Similar to giving a human hand massage, a paw massage can help with sore toes and promote better circulation. Start slowly and gently, making sure not to cause any excess pain. If your dog seems happy, start by rubbing between the pads on the bottom of the paw, and then rub between each toe. A little pampering can go a long way. 


5) Prevention

As they say, prevention is the best cure. Here are some useful ways to avoid future paws getting sore:


  • Clip your dog’s nails regularly 
  • Check for blockages after walks
  • Brush and check for matted hairs regularly
  • Build any new or extended exercise slowly, allowing their paws to acclimatize 
  • Watch out for hot asphalt! If it’s too hot for your feet it’s too hot for your pooch’s
  • Cold weather chemicals such as grits can irritate a dog’s paws, so make sure to wash them when coming home in the ice or snow
  • Keep your yard and floors clear of anything sharp
  • Be conscious to avoid broken glass and other debris when walking your dog


With these 5 principles, your pooch should find his paws are kept in tip-top shape. Meaning more fun and lots more fetch!