How to Soften Rough Puppy Foot Pads
Your dog's foot pads should be tough, durable and skid-proof. If they get over-dry and cracked, bacteria can enter and cause an infection. Over-dry pads may not offer enough traction on slippery floors, causing sprains or falls. Soften your puppy's foot pads with a few simple techniques.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- A moisturizing agent such as olive oil, vitamin E oil or a dog-specific pad moisturizer.
- Rags
- Biscuits or other reward
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Choose The Right Time
-
1
Don't try this the minute you get home from work. Your dog should be feeling calm and mellow.
-
2
If your dog has a favorite dog bed, encourage her to lay down. Offer a few biscuits. You're aiming for happy, relaxed interaction.
-
3
Sit with her for a while, handling her feet if she'll allow it. Don't use any moisturizing product right away. Just give her a nice foot massage.
-
4
Once she's comfortable with the foot handling, apply a small amount of oil. Rub it between your hands and gently massage it into her pads. Just apply it to the pads; you don't need to rub it between her toes.
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5
Encourage your dog to lay reasonably still for at least five minutes until the oil is absorbed. It's OK if she licks her feet; it will still soak into the outer layer of her pads.
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1
Tips & Warnings
In winter, salt and road chemicals can dry and damage paw pads. There are boots available to protect your dog's feet, but a quick wipe with a warm, wet rag should do the trick. Be sure to work the rag in between her toes.
Don't use perfumed, human-grade moisturizers on your dog's pads. Her sensitive nose will react to the scent and make the procedure more difficult. Go for an unscented product made for dogs or a natural oil. Do not use mineral oil or baby oil.
