About Dog Paws
Dogs' paws are among their most important assets. They not only help them walk and run, they provide shock absorption and allow them to maneuver over many types of surfaces. Dog paws are made up of bones that are actually quite similar to those found in human hands and feet, as well as very versatile pads.
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Function
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Dog paws have evolved over time to bear the full weight of the animal and enable the dog to walk on multiple kinds of surfaces--including ones that are rough, hot or extremely cold. They maneuver well for digging and scratching and provide traction. The placement of the bones and joints also allows for greater endurance in walking and running than many other animals experience.
Features
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A dog's paw is made up of thick, rough pads called the metacarpal (the central, weight-bearing pads), carpal (in the wrist area) and digital (which protect the "toes"). There is a claw for each of the digital pads, and some breeds also have a fifth claw near the carpal pad that may be removed when they are young to keep it from snagging on things and hurting the animal. The pads of a dog's paw are made of fat and a very tough outer layer of skin, which is actually the toughest skin on the animal's body. This skin helps protect against injuries and abrasions to the paw. Exocrine sweat glands (which secrete sweat into ducts that drain from the skin) are also a part of these pads.
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Types
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Different breeds of dogs have different kinds of feet. Doberman Pinschers, Akitas and several kinds of terriers have paws that are similar in shape to those of cats. They are compact in build and provide a good amount of support. Dogs such as greyhounds, several of the toy breeds and some terriers have much more delicate and narrow feet, with long center toes and short side toes. There are even dog breeds with webbed feet that help them maneuver in the water, such as those found on Newfoundlands, some types of spaniels and Portuguese Water Dogs.
Effects
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Dogs actually walk on their toes, not on the soles of their feet. Their heels do not touch the ground, either.
Misconceptions
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A dog's paw may look smooth, but the pads are actually made up of multiple small protuberances called conical papillae. These papillae can eventually be worn smooth by walking on rough surfaces such as pavement for extended periods.
Prevention/Solution
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In order to keep a dog's paws healthy, it is important to keep the nails trimmed on a regular basis and check in the fur between the toes for burrs and other foreign bodies. The pads should be checked for scratches, cuts or other wounds, especially after a dog has been on pavement for a long time, in the woods or other places where something could have injured it.
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