How to Protect Your Dog's Paws From Road Salt and De-Icers

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Winter walks mean snow, ice and salt, and for dogs without shoes, those can be a painful combination. A few simple steps protect paws and prevent a trip to the vet.

How salt and de-icers cause harm

Salt dries out the pads and causes burning and cracking. De-icing products can contain chemicals that irritate or are toxic. Dogs lick their feet, so they swallow residue, which can cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhea, and in large amounts, more serious problems. See dog paw pad care guide.

Before the walk

• Trim hair between the pads to stop ice balls and salt clumps. See how to trim hair between dog paw pads.
• Apply paw wax or balm as a barrier. See do dogs need paw balm or wax.
• Put on boots if your dog tolerates them.
• Plan your route to avoid heavily salted paths.

Boots

Boots are the most effective protection. Choose a snug, flexible pair with a grippy sole, and introduce them at home with treats. Check regularly for rubbing. Not all dogs accept them, so try different brands or use balm instead.

After the walk

1. Wipe or rinse paws with lukewarm water.
2. Dry carefully, including between the toes.
3. Check for redness, cracks and trapped ice or salt.
4. Apply a little dog-safe balm if pads are dry. See how to treat dry, cracked dog paw pads.

Keep a towel and a bowl of water by the door.

At home

Choose pet-safe de-icers, and sweep salt from your own steps. Store chemicals out of reach. Antifreeze is extremely toxic to dogs, so clean spills and call a vet immediately if swallowed.

Signs of trouble

• Red, sore or cracked pads
• Limping or reluctance to walk
• Licking and chewing the paws
• Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea
• Lethargy or tremors

Contact your vet right away if you see signs of poisoning. See winter grooming tips.

Other winter hazards

Ice can cut paws, and cold ground can cause frostbite on toes. Keep walks short in extreme cold and check feet often.

Training with boots

Practise at home, rewarding each step. Let your dog walk indoors in boots before going outside. See how to get a dog used to nail trims for similar training principles.

Choosing paw wax

Look for a wax with natural ingredients that are safe if licked, and apply a thin layer to the pads and between the toes before each walk. Test on one paw first. Wax does not replace rinsing, because salt can still stick, so wipe paws after the walk as well.

Cleaning routine by the door

Keep a shallow tray of lukewarm water, a towel and a bottle of dog-safe balm next to the door. Dip each paw, dry it, check between the toes and apply balm. It takes a minute, and it quickly becomes habit. If your dog is large, a damp cloth may be easier than dipping.

Alternatives to boots

If your dog hates boots, try walking on cleared or grassy routes, shortening winter walks, using paw wax and rinsing paws at the end. Some dogs do better with soft silicone covers, and some with light socks. Take your time and let your dog choose.

The takeaway

Protect, wipe and check. Salt is a winter hazard, but a simple routine keeps paws healthy.