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Dog’s eyes and tails get a lot of attention but did you know that our dog’s paws serve many functions? You can learn much about your dog’s health just by looking (and smelling) at those pampered paws. For example, did you know that paws that smell like tortilla chips are an indication of a yeast infection?
Keep on reading our dog lover friends because today we will understand how our dogs’ pampered paws work, what they are made of, and more importantly, how best you can care for your dog’s pampered paws.
What’s In A Doggie Pampered Paws?
Those pampered paws may look so cute and squeezable, but those are made up of fatty tissues, ligaments, tendons, muscles, keratin, and yes, bones. All of those parts work in unison so our doggies can move around fluidly.
Anatomy Of Pampered Paws
Our dogs’ paws have 5 parts namely:
1. Digital pads
These pads are found on each toe and they function as a protective and shock absorber to protect the bones in the paws.
2. Claws
The claws are made up of keratin and these are used by our dogs to dig and help them hold on to their prey.
3. Declaw
While the declaw serves no purpose for some dogs, they also use this for gripping, say, for instance, gripping a toy or a rawhide.
4. Carpal pad
Located above the front paws and is made up of keratinous skin and fat. The carpal pad functions as a brake mechanism as well as a shock absorber.
5. Metacarpal pad
Found at the center of the foot, this is a heart-shaped pad that supports the weight of our dogs.
Things You Didn’t Know About Your Doggie’s Pampered Paws
1. Pampered paws have a thick layer of fatty tissues
Even if those pampered paws have a thick layer of fatty tissues, it doesn’t mean that your doggie is immune from injuries while walking on hot or very cold terrain.
While it’s healthy to take your dog out for a walk, you should take measures to protect your dog’s paws, lest it will lead to potential paw injuries. One way to protect the paw pads is by allowing your dog to wear dog boots.
XSY & G Dog Boots
Reviews:
Dee | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Good fit on my dog. Durable quality. Stay on my dog while walking”.
Emily M. | ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I got these to protect my dog’s paws from the salt on sidewalks for ice/snow and for when she plays in the snow. I have to put them on her really tight so they stay on, but she seems to like them and they’re super durable!”.
2. Some dogs from colder climates have larger pampered paws
Dog breeds that originated in cold countries such as Newfoundlands have larger paws because they use these to tread safely on icy or snowy surfaces. If it’s wintertime in your neck of the woods, take precautions in taking care of your dog’s paws.
Have you ever thought of applying paw wax on your dog’s pampered paws? Paw wax is made of ingredients that will protect your dog’s paws from harmful chemical elements such as road salts. This is one product that we have tested and are more than satisfied with the results…
Natural Dog Company Paw Soother
The Natural Dog Company is a brand synonymous with all-natural and toxic-free pet products including the paw soother. The product is developed with the help of veterinarians so you can be confident that this paw wax won’t have any ill effects on your dog’s pampered paws.
Reviews:
Jill | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“My dog had a cut on her pad, and didn’t want to quit licking it. I tried this paw soother and overnight the cut closed up and she was no longer bothering it. Amazing product!”
Legipet Coconut Paw Balm
Reviews:
Mary | ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Dog doesn’t mind it which is critical. Seems to like the smell – and the foot massage. Got for travels to beach and snow, so still to be seen how it works in those situations.”
3. Some dogs have hare-like pampered paws
Some dog breeds have hare feet aka paws. This paw is characterized by having 2 longer middle toes that give the pampered paws the appearance of a hare’s foot. As a result, these dogs tend to run or sprint faster. Greyhounds and Whippets are 2 dog breeds that have hare paws.
Are you an active dog owner who enjoys running with your dog? Then think of using anti-slip paw grips before heading out to protect its pampered paws from the elements.
Aquamax Anti Slip Paw Grips Traction Pads
Reviews:
Laurie | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“… First – they’re adorable!!! It took me less than 3 minutes to put them on all 4 paws and it was soooo easy. Once on – they stayed on for a long time…about a week until it rained and then they started to roll around so I removed them and applied new ones. No big deal at all…”.
Annie | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Sticks to hair really well. Best to cut out the toes and paste them on separately.
If you have a hairy dog, I guarantee these stickers will stick really well…”.
Conclusion
We hope that with those tips we gave you, your dog’s pampered paws will not get injured this summer or winter from the dangers of hot or icy surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to Dr. Ellen Russell, a DVM who is practicing as a small animal veterinarian, you will see signs of blisters and the paw pads are darker than they normally are because of bleeding.