🐾 Paw & Nail Care for Your Dog

🛑 Common Paw Problems

• 🔸 Cracked or dry paw pads (especially in hot or cold weather)
• 🔸 Redness, swelling, or bleeding between the toes
• 🔸 Excessive licking or chewing of paws
• 🔸 Grass seeds, splinters, or ticks stuck between the toes
• 🔸 Fungal or bacterial infections on the paw pads
• 🔸 Burns from hot pavement or rough surfaces

🐾 Nail Care & Trimming

Overgrown nails can cause discomfort, pain while walking, or even long-term posture problems.

• ✂️ Trim your dog’s nails every 3–4 weeks, or sooner if they touch the floor while walking.
• 🩸 Avoid cutting too deep — stay clear of the pink part called the “quick” which contains nerves and blood vessels.
• 🧼 Use a pet nail clipper or grinder, not human tools.
• 🐕 Let your dog get used to handling — reward with treats after each paw is done.
• ❌ Don't force nail trims — if your dog resists too much, consult a groomer or vet.
• 📉 Long nails can curl inward and pierce the paw pads — check regularly!

🏡 Basic At-Home Paw Care

• 🧼 Clean paws after walks using a damp cloth or pet wipes
• 🧴 Use paw balms (like Himalaya Anitick or Natural Dog Company Paw Soother)
• 🧦 Try protective dog shoes for hot, icy, or muddy surfaces
• ✂️ Keep fur between paw pads trimmed to prevent buildup or matting
• ❄️ In winter, apply coconut oil or shea butter to cracked pads

💊 Common Paw & Nail Medicines

• Betadine or Savlon (diluted) – to clean wounds, cuts, or cracked nails
• Soframycin ointment – for infections or abrasions on paws
• Clotrimazole Cream (1%) – for fungal itch or nail bed infections (vet advice)
• Styptic powder – stops bleeding if you accidentally clip the quick

⚠️ Always consult a vet before applying any medication, especially near wounds or nail beds.

🩺 When to Visit the Vet

• 🚩 If your dog avoids walking or starts limping
• 🚩 Bleeding from nails or paw wounds
• 🚩 Pus, discharge, or foul smell from paws or between toes
• 🚩 Swelling, redness, or visible pain on nail trimming
• 🚩 Nail breaks, cracks, or curling into the skin