Skip to main content

Is cold just as bad as heat for dog paws? We asked the experts

How to keep your pup's paws protected from the chill (as you would from the hot)

Many pet parents are familiar with the dangers of heat on a dog’s paws, but did you know the cold poses just as much of a threat? It’s true — prolonged exposure to ice, snow, or even chilly sidewalks can lead to a host of unwanted consequences for your furry friend. Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to protect a dog in cold weather, starting from the paws up.

A white dog stands outside in the snow and licks their lips

The dangers of cold conditions for your dog’s paws

A lot of owners think ahead to protect dogs in hot weather, so why shouldn’t you do the same when it’s chilly outside? The cold might not seem as dangerous at first glance, but dog trainer Michelle Lehr, CCMT, urges dog owners to look closely for danger.

Recommended Videos

“It’s important to understand that the paws of a dog are particularly vulnerable to the cold,” she explained. “This is because they are constantly in contact with the ground and are exposed to the elements. In addition, dogs tend to lose a significant amount of heat through their paws, which means they are more susceptible to frostbite and other cold-related injuries.”

According to Lehr, signs of frostbite include:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Numbness
  • In severe cases, tissue death

She also warns owners to keep an eye out for any ice balls that might form on the fur of the paws — or even between the toes! As well as being super uncomfortable, these ice balls can also increase the likelihood of frostbite and other complications.

Dr. Lindsay Butzer, DVM, is passionate about the hidden dangers of “toxic chemicals such as salts and deicer ingredients that can be left on your pets’ paws. I always recommend using snow boots on your pups if you’re anticipating going for long walks on cold surfaces or in areas with roads where there are toxic chemicals used to melt the snow.” Plus — those paws will be protected from the cold!

A beagle wearing a red harness stands in the snow
Image used with permission by copyright holder

How to protect your dog’s paws in the winter

As Butzer recommended, dog paw booties can be one solution for a number of cold-weather concerns. If your dog isn’t a fan of wearing anything, though, you can opt for alternatives to walking outdoors in the winter. Lehr also believes in limiting outdoor time during freezing temperatures, however, that doesn’t mean you have to skip every walk. Paw balms are another helpful type of dog paw protection for pups that can’t resist a romp in the snow.

Aaron Argueta is the co-founder of Bailey’s CBD for pets, and he loves using paw balm for chilly toe beans. He suggested “using Bailey’s hemp-infused paw and nose balm to help restore moisture, reduce inflammation, and keep your dog’s paws and nose protected for longevity. It easily absorbs into your pet’s paws, nose, and skin and contains ingestible-safe, plant-based ingredients.” That sounds easy enough to try, right?

There are many ways to keep your pup’s paws safe during the cold winter months — though it’s up to you to find the solution that fits best into your life. Good luck!

Gabrielle LaFrank
Gabrielle LaFrank has written for sites such as Psych2Go, Elite Daily, and, currently, PawTracks. When she's not writing, you…
Are hydrangeas toxic for dogs? Read this first before letting your pup near your flowers
What to do if your dog eats hydrangeas — and whether they're poisonous
Greyhound on a leash in a yard

Pet parents may know the potential dangers of certain foods, like chocolate, for pets. However, risks within a home — and outside of it — aren't limited to pantry staples. Eating certain plants can also lead to short-term discomfort, long-term health issues, and even death. Holiday-favorite poinsettias are one of the more well-known examples of plants that are toxic to dogs.

There are others, including ones commonly found in gardens and bouquets each spring and summer. What about hydrangeas? Are hydrangeas poisonous to dogs? This one is a great question, given how ubiquitous hydrangeas are around the country. They thrive in various conditions and soils and add bulk and beauty to gardens — a true bang-for-your-buck plant for green thumbs, but what about pet parents? Here's what to know about hydrangeas, toxicity, and dogs.
Are hydrangeas poisonous to dogs?

Read more
Why does your dog smell bad? Here’s how to fix it
One of these things might be the cause of your stinky pooch
Dog leaning on human in blue sweater

Whether your dog is a young pup or an old buddy, a stinky canine could be a cause for concern, and not just for your nose! While we love that most of our dogs spend relaxing evenings on our laps or at our feet, it can sometimes be miserable to be so close to them when they are smelly. This is not only stinky for you, but also for them when you banish them to another room. So why does your dog smell so bad? Let's bring cuddling back into your nighttime routine and find out why your pup might be a stinky dog.

Why does your dog smell so bad?

Read more
Are cats cleaner than dogs, really?
Here are the ways that cats are cleaner than dogs
Two people holding up a dog and a cat

Lots of pet parents believe that felines are neater than canines and choose their companion animal as a result. But are cats cleaner than dogs, really? You've probably spotted your kitty grooming almost constantly, while a pup pup might be found rolling around in the mud — or something worse. It turns out that, in this case, the rumors prove true, and you'll get a cleaner buddy if you stick to a cat. Here are five reasons why mousers have the edge in this department.
Are cats cleaner than dogs? Yes, in 5 ways

There isn't just one standout way that cats beat dogs here. Instead, it's actually a few factors combined that create the cleanliness disparity.
Grooming

Read more