02/12/2026
Winter paw protection. Road salt, de-icers, and ice are hazards to your dog’s feet. Guide Dogs for the Blind recommends checking your dog’s paws and pads every day for cuts, cracks, blisters, and bleeding. Trimming the fur on the bottom of the paws helps prevent the snow and ice from accumulating, which can be painful for your dog. Paw balms such as Musher’s Secret Paw Wax can be used daily to keep paws moisturized and healthy. They also provide a barrier to salt and ice when applied before your dog goes outside.
If traveling, baby wipes are a great way to wipe the salt and other de-icing products off of paws. Once home, you can wipe your dog’s feet, legs, and belly with a damp towel to remove these irritating (and toxic) products.
Booties make the winter so much better. There are many great options out there (e.g. Ruffwear and Paws Disposable Booties). Make sure they are comfortable, flexible, and not too tight. Wearing a boot liner or a baby sock can provide extra warmth, absorb moisture, and prevent chaffing. A great way to deal with winter walks is to use Musher’s Secret Paw Wax combined with lightweight protective booties such as Pawz Disposable Booties.
Photo description: A woman and her yellow Lab Golden Cross guide dog walk along a snow-covered road on a sunny day. The dog is wearing Ruffwear booties and a bright blue snowsuit while the woman is bundled up in a long, dark-colored down coat, colorful mittens, and a black scarf. Snowbanks line the path, and bare trees and a white house are visible in the background.
Alt text: A Lab golden cross dog in black boots guiding her partner along a snowy country road.
