Your dog’s paws are their everyday sneakers, boots, and bare feet—all rolled into one. They walk, run, dig, jump, and play with them. But here’s a question most pet parents never ask themselves:

👉 When was the last time you looked closely at your dog’s paws?

Many canine injuries and discomforts go unnoticed simply because we forget to check. A quick weekly paw check could prevent small issues from turning into serious problems.

Why Weekly Paw Checks Matter

Dogs don’t always show pain until it’s unbearable. They’re instinctively wired to hide discomfort, which means you won’t always know something’s wrong until it’s advanced. That’s where a simple routine can make all the difference.

Here’s what you should look for during a quick weekly check:

🔍 1. Cracks, Flakes, or Dryness

If the paw pads feel rough like sandpaper or have visible cracks, your dog’s paws are likely too dry. This can make walking uncomfortable—especially on hot sidewalks or cold concrete.

🩹 2. Small Cuts or Foreign Objects

Glass shards, tiny stones, or even thorns can get stuck between their toes. These can easily lead to infections if not removed promptly.

😣 3. Redness or Irritation

This could be from walking on salted roads, chemical exposure from lawn treatments, or allergies. Check for redness between the toes or at the base of the pad.

🧼 4. Unusual Smells or Discharge

A foul odor or sticky discharge may indicate a fungal or bacterial infection. These require vet care and shouldn’t be ignored.

❤️ How to Make Paw Checks a Habit

  1. Pair it with a weekly grooming routine or bath.
  2. Reward your dog with a treat or affection after each check.
  3. Keep a soft towel, a paw balm, and tweezers handy.
  4. If something seems off—don’t wait. Call your vet.

🧴 Give Their Paws Some Love

At Pawlish, we created our paw balm to make these checkups more than just a routine—they become a bonding moment. With natural ingredients like coconut oil, calendula, shea butter, and vitamin E, our balm moisturizes, soothes, and protects your pup’s paws year-round.

Because your dog does so much for you—this is one small thing you can do for them.