You’ve just returned from a fun outdoor adventure with your dog—maybe a hike or just a long walk in the park. As your pup sprawls out to rest, you take a closer look at their paws and realize they seem a little rough. Maybe even cracked in some places.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many dog parents have been there, when realization dawns that their pets’ paws don’t look like their former supple selves.
A gazillion thoughts would rush through your mind.
But the first one is, ‘How do I heal my pup’s paws?’
Instinctively, you look up on Google, and there are conversations about creams, balms, ointments, and even oil.
How do you know what’s the best solution for the situation at hand? They all seem alike. More importantly, do dry paws always need to be treated? Aren’t they common in pets?
Before you rush to grab the first thing on the supermarket aisle, let’s dig into what these products actually do and how they differ.
And trust me, as someone who’s dealt with their fair share of rough paws, I’ve learned the hard way that picking the right one makes all the difference. We will also discuss whether or not, your dog’s paws may need some TLC.
Understanding Dry and Cracked Paws
First things first, what causes dry paws?
While many of us think our dogs’ paws are tough enough to handle any terrain, the truth is, they are not. Dog paw pads are made of thick skin with layers of fatty tissue and collagen that act as shock absorbers, but they’re not indestructible.
Paws endure heat from pavement, cold from snow, salt, gravel, chemicals and all sorts of things that can hurt and damage them over time.
Repeated exposure to these elements, without proper care, can lead to dry, cracked, or even infected paw pads.
💡 Telltale signs to watch out for: You might notice your dog limping, obsessively licking their paws, or hesitating to walk on certain surfaces. These are clear signs that their pads are irritated.
Coming back to the million dollar question, what’s the solution?
Do they need paw cream, balm, or ointment?
Well, that depends on a few things, like how severe the condition is and what kinds of activities they generally engage in.
Let’s break down the differences in all three.
Paw Cream: Ideal for Daily Moisturizing
Paw cream is a lightweight product designed for regular moisturizing. Think of it like hand lotion but for your dog.
If your dog isn’t constantly exposed to harsh environments but occasionally has dry or flaky paws, a paw cream might be all it needs.
Texture & Application
Creams are typically smooth, light, and fast-absorbing, making them easy to apply. After application, you won’t have to worry about greasy paws or your dog slipping on the floor.
Bonus points for not smearing the couch with a sticky layer of unremovable gunk.
Ideally used for
Paw cream is perfect for dogs with mildly dry paws or for routine care. If your dog spends most of its time indoors or walks on softer surfaces like grass, you can use paw cream regularly to maintain hydration.
Creams can also be a good choice during transitional weather, like the fall or spring, when it isn’t too extreme.
Typical Ingredients
Common ingredients in paw creams include hydrating agents like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter.
These are gentle and provide long-lasting moisture. They’re also safe if your dog decides to lick their paws, which, let’s face it, they probably will.
While paw cream is great for maintenance, if your dog is a bit of a wild child, constantly trekking through harsh environments, you may need something more protective. Enter paw balm.
Paw Balms: The Protective Shield
Paw balms could be like the Swiss knife of the pet care universe, especially if you choose the right product. They tend to be multidimensional pet care products that may work for almost everything under the sun.
Think of them as a heavier-duty option that not only moisturizes but also forms a barrier between your dog’s paws and the environment.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve used my paw balm for my dogs when we’re out hiking or during the winter months. It’s saved us from countless dry, cracked paw situations.
That’s not all. Its worked really well for minor wounds, scar healing and even hyperkeratosis (a condition where the body produces excess keratin, leading to thick, cracked paw pads), for my senior dog.
Works like a charm.
Texture & Application
Balms are waxy and often a bit heavier than creams. This is because they’re designed to coat the paws, creating a semi-permeable barrier.
Don’t worry, though. Most balms absorb after a few minutes, leaving your dog’s paws soft but protected. Just give your dog a little distraction after applying it to avoid licking it off.
Ideally used for
Paw balms are a must-have if your dog frequently walks on hot pavement, snow, gravel, or rough terrain. They’re perfect for extreme weather, be it the blazing summer heat or the icy winter chill. Think of balms as protective boots for your dog’s feet, except they don’t hate them as much.
If you get one with the right ingredients, like this one, you can use them for wound and scrapes, hyperkeratosis, alleviating peeling, flaky paws, reducing allergies and as a preventive measure against inflammation.
Typical Ingredients
Most paw balms are made from natural ingredients like organic shea butter, and coconut oil. But we normally look for products that have natural vitamins added to them. These ingredients form a protective layer and help heal any existing cracks or dryness.
And the best part? Balms like the one I use are totally safe for dogs to lick.
So, if your pup is like mine, constantly bounding across trails and rocky paths, you’ll want to make paw balm a regular part of their care routine. It’s especially helpful when the pavement can get unbearably hot in the summer.
Ointments: For Serious Paw Problems
Ointments are a step up in terms of protection and healing. But they’re generally used for medical purposes and to help treat serious conditions like bleeding, or infected paws.
These are slower to absorb, which makes them better suited for paws that need deep healing.
Texture & Application
Ointments are much greasier than balms or creams. They’re designed to stay on the skin longer.
Since they take longer to absorb, they’re best used when your dog won’t be walking around immediately afterward. If you hate greasy residue on your furniture, then you’ve got to be vigilant until this gets absorbed all the way.
Ideally used for
An ointment is the best choice if your dog has deep wounds or infections.
Vets often recommend these when the paws need extra help healing. But if you are looking for a daily care product, this is not it. You are better off using a paw balm.
Typical Ingredients
Ointments often include ingredients like petroleum jelly, lanolin, or medicated agents like zinc oxide or antibiotics. If you notice bleeding, infections, or severe cracking, please consult your vet rather than self-medicating.
Please note: Ointments, while effective, are best used under guidance, especially when dealing with open wounds or infections.
How to analyze the product label while buying creams, balms and ointments
Regardless of which product you choose, the ingredients determine how effective they will be.
Dogs are notorious for licking their paws, so you’ll want something that’s safe for them to ingest (because, let’s be real, it’s going to happen).
For me, organic and natural ingredients are non-negotiable. I generally try to avoid synthetics unless its a medicated product recommended by our vet. Here are some key ingredients to look out for:
- Organic Shea Butter or Coconut Oil: Both are incredibly moisturizing and are often found in creams and balms. They help hydrate the paws and soothe any irritation. For us, it’s a toss-up between these two ingredients. But Shea Butter suits my pups a lot better. Its also quicker absorbing than Coconut oil.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe is often found in lighter creams. It’s great for reducing inflammation and healing minor wounds.
- Natural Vitamins: Naturally occurring vitamins like Vitamin A, E & F are godsend for chapped paws and snouts. They help the skin regenerate quicker and can be very effective for wound healing.
- Antibiotics/Medicated Agents: If your dog has an infection or deep cracks, your vet may recommend ointments with antibiotics or anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Do All Dogs Need Paw Care?
💡 Not all dogs need to use paw creams, balms, or ointments daily. If your dog primarily walks on soft surfaces like grass and doesn’t show any signs of dryness, you might not need to worry.
However, if you live in an area with extreme weather (hot summers, icy winters) or if your dog loves outdoor adventures, paw care becomes more essential. This is especially true if you have an older or aging dog at home.
Aging pets tend to be more prone to paw dryness. What’s bothersome is that it can happen without you even noticing the progression.
Regular paw checks can help you decide if your dog needs extra care. Look for signs like dryness, cracking, excessive licking, or even limping. If you notice any of these, it’s time to incorporate a paw care product into your dog’s grooming routine.
Conclusion: What does your dog need?
In the end, whether your dog needs paw cream, balm, or ointment depends on their lifestyle and the condition of their paws.
- A paw cream should suffice for regular maintenance, especially if your dog stays mostly indoors.
- Recommended: A paw balm is the most versatile paw care product you can invest in. Regardless of whether its extreme environmental conditions, or outdoor adventures or hyperkeratosis, this can do wonders.
- And if you’re dealing with serious cracks, wounds, or infections, opt for a medicated ointment after consulting your vet.
