It’s #InternationalDogDay so I thought we should celebrate our 4 legged friends

These two beauties are my babies; Frankie and Lucy!

Our beloved pooches have paws come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some dogs are wide, others are narrow. Some have dew claws, some have hair between their toes, and others have webbed feet. Dogs walk on their toes, unlike humans who take most of our weight on our heels. 

Paw pads cushion the bottom of dogs feet, they are very tough, thick, and well insulated. When you look closely at paw pads they appear rough, this is normal. They are rough for protective purposes.  Frequent usage gives a dog’s paws added traction and stability, both of which contribute to the fact that you rarely see dogs slip or lose their footing. Paw pads also provide insulation for a dog’s feet and are particularly effective when it is extremely cold outside.  

Even though dog’s paws are tough it is important to remember that they aren’t indestructible. They can blister and be severely damaged when exposed to environmental extremes or activities that they are unaccustomed to.  Hot surfaces, such as pavements, can cause dog’s feet to blister and burn so be careful when walking your pooch during the summer months. 

Dogs sweat through their paws, cooling the hot dog down as well as preventing the pads from drying out. And like humans, if a dog is nervous or stressed their paws will also exude moisture.  If your dog begins to lick or chew their feet excessively, this could be a sign that your furry friend is feeling stressed. Excessive licking or chewing can result in your dog’s paws becoming infected and a visit to the vets may be needed. 

Their claws are similar to and different than human fingernails. Though they are tougher, thicker, and more durable than your fingernails, a dog’s claws grow just as quickly. Dogs who are highly active outdoors — whether walking, running, or digging — tend to keep their claw length under control through constant use.  

A dog’s paws serve a multitude of basic and specialised functions. In addition to walking, digging, self-grooming, and play, they also contain scent and sweat glands, which are useful for territorial marking and temperature control.

Taking care of your dog’s paws and claws is essential to their long-term health and well-being, just as important as our own foot health.

 

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