Painful Pads, Ice Balls and Protective Boots: Your Guide to Paw Care in Freezing Weather
My dogs, Wilf and Walter, are standard poodles. Being a hardy, robust breed, I rarely worry about them coping with weather conditions, and we very much enjoy our scenic winter walks. With smaller or less hairy breeds such as smooth miniatures and toys, or dogs that are unused to regular long walks on rough terrain, paws can be more susceptible to environmental hazards and I’ve occasionally seen other dog owners use protective booties, which I was intrigued by….so much so that I’ve done some in-depth paw research to try and understand whether these are really necessary.
How cold weather affects dogs’ paws
Dogs are better adapted to cold ground than many people realise. Their paws are supported by several proven biological mechanisms that help regulate temperature and protect the skin.
One of the most important is counter-current heat exchange. Warm blood travelling down into the paw transfers heat to the cooler blood returning back up the leg. This reduces heat loss into cold surfaces while maintaining healthy circulation. It’s a well-documented system found in animals adapted to extreme cold. Penguins actually have a similar circulation system – and as you can imagine, the ground can get pretty cold where they live.
Paw pads themselves are designed for winter conditions. They contain fatty tissue that resists freezing, allowing pads to remain flexible and cushioned even at low temperatures. Many dogs also grow fur between their toes, which adds insulation, reduces snow build-up and improves traction. Breeds developed for colder climates tend to have more of this natural protection.
Regular walking strengthens paw pads over time, helping them become thicker and tougher. Dogs also instinctively adjust their behaviour when conditions become uncomfortable — lifting a paw, avoiding standing still, or curling up with their paws tucked underneath them to conserve warmth.
However, even well-adapted paws have limits. Prolonged exposure to icy ground or compacted snow can lead to dryness, cracking, redness and irritation. Ice balls forming between the toes are common, and in severe conditions, mild frostbite is possible.
Why salt grit and de-icers damage dogs’ paws
In most cases, salt grit and de-icing products cause more damage than cold weather alone.
Salt crystals are abrasive and can scratch the surface of the paw pads, creating tiny breaks in the skin that sting and become inflamed. Many de-icing salts are also highly drying, pulling moisture out of the skin and increasing the risk of cracking and soreness.
Some commercial de-icers contain harsher chemicals that can irritate or burn the sensitive skin between the toes. After walks, dogs naturally lick their paws, which means any residue left behind may be ingested — something best avoided.
The Role (and Limits) of Dog Booties
Dog booties can be useful, but they are not a universal solution.
Used appropriately, booties can shield paws from salt and chemical de-icers, prevent ice building up between the toes, reduce moisture loss from already-dry pads, and improve grip on slippery surfaces. They are particularly helpful for dogs with sensitive skin, breeds not adapted to cold climates, or dogs recovering from paw injuries.
However, booties also change how paws function. Limiting direct contact with the ground can interfere with natural temperature regulation. Moisture can build up inside the boot, softening the pads and increasing the risk of rubbing or chafing. Warm, damp conditions also encourage microbial growth, which may lead to redness, swelling or irritation.
When Booties Make Sense — and When They Don’t
Booties are usually worth considering when pavements are heavily salted, chemical de-icers are widely used, or when a dog regularly finishes walks with sore, cracked or bleeding pads. They can also help if a dog starts lifting their paws or limping in cold conditions.
They are often unnecessary when walks are on natural snow, temperatures are cold but not extreme, or the ground is salt-free and the walk is short. Some dogs never tolerate booties comfortably, even with gradual conditioning - and forcing them can create more stress than benefit.
Practical Winter Paw Care: The Biteback approach
Consistent after-walk care is one of the most effective ways to protect paws through winter.
After every winter walk, I rinse Wilf and Walter’s paws using a mild, dog-friendly pH shampoo. Sweet Relief Shampoo is ideal for this purpose. I add one squirt to a paw plunger, top it up with hand-hot water, stand the dog on a towel and plunge each paw thoroughly. This removes salt, grit and environmental irritants in just a couple of minutes.
Keeping the fur between the toes neatly trimmed helps prevent ice balls forming. If paws show signs of wear and tear, I apply a hydrating, soothing paw balm such as Sweet Relief Silver Cream to support the skin barrier. Regular paw checks and using dog-friendly de-icers at home complete a simple, effective routine.
Consistency is what delivers results.
Final thoughts
Winter can be tough on paws, but with a bit of awareness and proactive care, you can keep your dog comfortable and protected. Salt grit, ice, and cold temperatures pose real risks - but having a good after-walk routine can make a big difference.
Biteback: the right tools, practical guidance, proven results.
FAQs: Winter Paw Care for Dogs
Do dogs need boots in winter?
Not always. Many dogs cope well without boots, especially on natural snow or short, salt-free walks. Boots are most useful when pavements are heavily salted or if your dog has sensitive or damaged paws.
Is road salt bad for dogs’ paws?
Yes. Road salt is abrasive and drying, and chemical de-icers can irritate or burn the skin. Salt residue should always be washed off after walks.
How can I protect my dog’s paws from salt?
Rinse paws after every winter walk using a mild, dog-friendly pH shampoo. Keep fur between the toes trimmed and support the skin barrier with a hydrating paw balm if needed.
Why does my dog lick their paws after winter walks?
Dogs lick their paws to relieve irritation or dryness. This often indicates salt, grit or chemical residue is present and should be washed away promptly.
How often should I check my dog’s paws in winter?
Daily checks are ideal during winter. Look for redness, cracking, swelling or sensitivity, especially between the toes.