Between late February and early April, Georgia sidewalks are a minefield for dog paws. Residual road salt, cold concrete, morning mud, and the first wave of seasonal pollen all hit your dog’s feet at once. Most owners notice their dog licking their paws more than usual — and that’s often the first sign that those pads need some TLC. Here’s what you need to know about dog paw care in winter and spring, and how to keep your dog comfortable season after season.
Why Winter and Early Spring Are Hard on Dog Paws
Your dog’s paw pads are tough — but they’re not invincible. Several seasonal factors combine to dry out, crack, or irritate them:
- Salt and de-icing chemicals — Residual rock salt and chemical melters linger on sidewalks and roads well into February and March. They cause chemical burns and dryness if left on the pads.
- Cold, hard surfaces — Concrete and asphalt lose heat rapidly in winter. Prolonged contact can cause pads to crack, especially in dogs not accustomed to hard pavement.
- Mud and trapped moisture — Spring mud gets packed between the toes and under the pads, creating the perfect environment for yeast and bacterial infections.
- Early seasonal allergens — Tree pollen starts appearing in Georgia in late February. Dogs that are allergic often chew and lick their paws, leading to redness and secondary infections.
Signs Your Dog’s Paws Need Attention
Don’t wait for a limp to check your dog’s paws. Watch for these early indicators that something is off:
- Excessive licking or chewing at the feet — often the first and most common sign
- Redness, swelling, or cracking on or between the pads
- Limping or reluctance to walk on certain surfaces
- Brown staining between the toes — a classic sign of yeast overgrowth from chronic moisture
What to Check After Every Walk
Make it a habit to do a 30-second paw check when you come back inside. Look between the toes for debris, mud, or matted hair. Check the pads for small cuts, cracks, or unusual texture. A quick wipe-down is enough to remove most seasonal irritants before they cause trouble.
A Simple At-Home Paw Care Routine
You don’t need a full grooming kit to protect your dog’s paws between appointments. These four steps take less than five minutes and make a real difference:
- Wipe paws after every walk — Use a damp cloth or dog-safe paw wipe to remove salt, mud, and pollen. Pay attention to the spaces between the toes.
- Trim hair between the pads — Long hair between the pads traps moisture, mud, and ice balls. If you can’t see the pads easily, it’s time for a trim.
- Apply a pet-safe paw balm — Products like Musher’s Secret or Paw Soother create a protective barrier and moisturize cracked pads. Apply before outdoor walks in cold or icy conditions.
- Consider dog booties for extreme conditions — Not all dogs accept them, but booties offer complete protection on heavily salted or icy surfaces. Start with short sessions indoors to get your dog used to wearing them.
What Professional Grooming Adds to Your Dog’s Paw Care
At-home care is essential — but a professional groomer can do things that are difficult (or risky) to do yourself:
- Thorough pad inspection — Groomers are trained to spot early signs of cracking, foreign bodies, or infection that owners often miss
- Safe trimming of inter-digital hair — Trimming the hair between the pads requires proper scissors and technique to avoid cutting the skin
- Conditioning pad treatment — Professional-grade balms and conditioners restore elasticity to dry or cracked pads more effectively than consumer products
- Nail trimming and filing — Overgrown nails change the way your dog walks, putting extra pressure on the pads and joints
How Often Should Your Dog See a Groomer for Paw Care?
For most dogs, a professional grooming appointment every 4 to 6 weeks includes a full paw check and basic pad maintenance. Dogs that spend more time outdoors, or those prone to allergies or skin issues, may benefit from more frequent visits. At Robin’s Groomingdales, paw care is always part of our full-service grooming packages — we’ll let you know if we spot anything that needs extra attention.
Paw Care Checklist: What to Do and When
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Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Paw Care
Can I use regular human lotion on my dog’s paws?
Most human lotions are not recommended for dogs. They can contain ingredients like zinc oxide, salicylic acid, or fragrances that are toxic if licked. Use a paw balm specifically formulated for dogs — they’re made to be safe if your dog licks their paws after application.
How often should my dog’s nails be trimmed?
A general rule of thumb: if you can hear your dog’s nails clicking on the floor, they’re too long. For most dogs, nails should be trimmed every 3 to 4 weeks. Overgrown nails affect posture, gait, and put extra stress on the pads — which is why nail trimming is always included in our grooming services at Robin’s Groomingdales.
Are dog booties actually useful, or just cute?
Booties genuinely protect against salt, ice, and hot pavement — but they take patience to introduce properly. Start by letting your dog sniff and investigate the booties, then put them on for a few minutes indoors before graduating to short outdoor walks. Not every dog will accept them, but for dogs with sensitive or damaged pads, they can make a big difference.
Book a Paw Care Appointment at Robin’s Groomingdales
Your dog’s paws work hard every day — especially during the rough transition from winter to spring. At Robin’s Groomingdales, we include a full paw inspection, inter-digital trim, pad conditioning, and nail care with every grooming appointment. Serving dog owners in Dunwoody and Sandy Springs, GA, we’re here to make sure your pup is comfortable, clean, and ready for any season. Book your appointment today →
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. If your dog shows signs of pain, persistent licking, open sores, or infection on their paws, please consult a licensed veterinarian.