How to Keep Your Dog's Feet From Getting Cold

The winter is hard on dogs. While they do have fur covering their bodies, this doesn't protect dogs from the cold. They are just as prone to frostbite as people. The foot pads in particular are delicate and prone to getting ice and salt in between the toes during winter walks. Taking good care of your dog's feet and keeping them warm will keep dogs happy and healthy during the cold season.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel
  • Warm water
  • Petroleum jelly
  • Dog boots
  • Dog mat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean your dog's feet whenever they come in from the cold weather or rain. Stop the dog at the door. Wipe each foot with a dry terry cloth towel. If there is ice in the dog's foot pads, dip their feet in warm water to melt it away and dry. Rub petroleum jelly into the the dog's pads to finish.

    • 2

      Get your dog some booties to wear outside. The dog may have trouble adapting to the booties, so train your pet with positive reinforcement beforehand. Put one boot on a foot and give the dog a treat for leaving it one. Take the boot off again. Repeat with two booties and take off again. Repeat with three boots and four boots until the dog is comfortable walking around in the footwear.

    • 3

      Get a warm mat for the dog's bed. You can also substitute by laying down rugs in areas where the dog likes to spend time. The mat should be dog-proof with an adjustable thermostat. If the mat is set at too high a temperature, higher than 102 F, it will be uncomfortable for the dog to sleep on.