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How To Select A Healthy Dog Paw Balm
Posted by Dr. Roth on
A dog’s paw pads see a lot. They carry the dog’s weight as he walks, touch all kinds of surfaces, and come into contact with numerous substances. As such, they can become dry, cracked, and incredibly painful.
Fortunately, there are things pet parents can do to help improve the health of their dog’s paw pads. One such thing is using dog health care products like dog paw balm. Here’s what pet parents need to know about dog paw issues and how they can go about selecting a quality dog paw balm for their canine companions.
A dog with allergies or sensitive skin may also be prone to dry, cracked paw pads and other skin-related issues.
When a dog frequently licks his paws, that can lead to dry, cracked skin.
Other signs of dog skin issues on the paw pads include:
Pet parents should periodically perform paw pad checks. They should roll their dog over onto his back and inspect the pads for cuts, abrasions, cracking, and debris stuck between them.
If pet parents suspect or notice a serious problem, they should contact their primary vet or consult with an online vet for advice.
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Fortunately, there are things pet parents can do to help improve the health of their dog’s paw pads. One such thing is using dog health care products like dog paw balm. Here’s what pet parents need to know about dog paw issues and how they can go about selecting a quality dog paw balm for their canine companions.
What Causes Problems with a Dog's Paw Pads?
While the skin of a dog’s paw pads is tough, it’s not invincible. One of the most common issues a dog’s paw pads face is becoming dry and cracked. Dry, cracked paws can happen as a result of many factors, including:
- Age
- Allergies
- Exposure to hot pavement
- Cold weather
- Dry air
- Contact with chemicals
- Excessive licking
A dog with allergies or sensitive skin may also be prone to dry, cracked paw pads and other skin-related issues.
Signs of Dog Paw Problems
One of the most common signs of an issue with a dog’s paws is excessive licking. That licking can indicate one of several different problems such as:
- Injuries
- Something stuck in the paw pads
- Ticks or other parasites
- Cysts or growths
When a dog frequently licks his paws, that can lead to dry, cracked skin.
Other signs of dog skin issues on the paw pads include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Cuts on the paw pads
- Blisters
- Limping
Pet parents should periodically perform paw pad checks. They should roll their dog over onto his back and inspect the pads for cuts, abrasions, cracking, and debris stuck between them.
If pet parents suspect or notice a serious problem, they should contact their primary vet or consult with an online vet for advice.
How to Select a Healthy Dog Paw Balm
Pet parents can help to improve the overall health, appearance, and feel of their dog’s paw pads by applying a healthy dog paw balm. The problem, however, is that there are so many different products on the market. How are pet parents to know the best dog care products to buy?
To ensure they’re purchasing a quality dog paw balm, pet parents should pay close attention to the ingredient list. Take a look at the oil type for options such as coconut, olive, or soy. These oils can provide moisture for the paw pads, hydrating them and helping them heal.
Pet parents should also avoid fragrances. While they might smell nice, they can sometimes irritate the skin, making the issue worse. Additionally, a dog may lick his paws after a pet parent has applied the balm, and ingesting fragrances may lead to illness.
Other things pet parents should watch for are a long list of unusual or unfamiliar ingredients and highly processed products. A dog paw balm with a short, easy-to-pronounce ingredient list is often best. Even so, pet parents should make sure they know the source of any products they purchase.
On top of a dog paw balm, pet parents might also consider adding a dog skin and coat supplement to their canine’s diet. They might also invest in a dog subscription box that contains everything they need to ensure their dog’s overall skin health.