NATURE FIRST · SEASON
Dogs in Winter: Paws, Road Salt and the Silent Danger
Snow is fun, but road salt, lumps of ice and above all antifreeze put paws and health to the test. Here is what matters.
For many dogs winter is a delight, but it brings its own risks. Road salt irritates the pads, small lumps of ice form between the toes, and antifreeze is an often underestimated, life-threatening trap. With a little attention your dog will come through the cold season in good health.
The four winter risks
Road salt
Dries out the pads and leads to painful cracks. Licked up, it additionally irritates the stomach.
Ice between the pads
Snow clumps in the fur between the toes into hard, painful little balls.
Cold
Thin-coated, small, young and old dogs get cold quickly. Shorter walks and, if needed, a coat help here.
Antifreeze
Tastes sweetish and is highly toxic. Even the smallest amounts are dangerous, see the warning below.
Antifreeze is an emergency
The active substance ethylene glycol tastes sweetish and attracts dogs, but it is highly toxic: as little as one to two millilitres per kilogram of body weight can be fatal. The first signs often appear only hours later, and then kidney failure threatens. If you suspect your dog has swallowed any, drive to the animal clinic at once. Take care in garages, driveways and around puddles too, as some road salt also contains glycol.
Paw care after the walk
Rinse
Rinse the paws with lukewarm water after every walk to remove road salt and dirt, then dry them well.
Check
Check the pads for cracks and gently loosen little ice balls between the toes.
Care
Rub dry pads with paw balm, this forms a barrier against salt and cold.
Prevent
Keep the hair between the pads short and avoid salted routes. For sensitive dogs, paw boots help.
Frequently asked questions
Does my dog need paw boots or balm?
For many dogs, rinsing and a paw balm are enough. For sensitive pads or long stretches on road salt, paw boots can offer extra protection.
May my dog eat snow?
Small amounts of clean snow are usually harmless, larger amounts irritate the stomach. Take care with dirty or salted snow.
How long may I walk in frost?
Rather shorter and keep moving. If your dog gets cold, shivers or lifts its paws, it is time to turn back. Small and thin-coated dogs get cold faster.