What is the most important body part on a dog’s body except its nose and ears that are used for exploring the world? Of course, we talk about the paws. Shiba Inu paws represent one of the main ‘tools’ for discovering new objects, shapes, and terrains. That’s why we need to provide them with the right care throughout the year.
What do you need to know about Shiba Inu paws?
Your Shiba’s paws are built of fats and fibers that help cushion his joints from shock, injuries, and allow your pooch to walk comfortably. Dog paw pads feature special glands that represent the only place where dogs can sweat. That’s why it’s extremely important to keep them healthy, moist, and protected from burns, cuts, and blisters.
If the pads become cracked and dry, your dog can experience painful mobility issues that can end up with an infection. Even a stuck piece of grass or some other plant can cause problems with the pads. Therefore daily check for dirt, pebbles, and other elements between your Shiba’s toes will be the best ‘early remedy.’
How to take care of your Shiba Inu paws?
Clean them daily
Just like you wash your hands and feet, so does your pooch has to get a daily paw cleaning. They collect harmful elements from outdoors that your dog can lick and develop allergies or experience problems with digestion. Since Shibas can suffer from allergies we recommend you wash his paws with warm water. Wet cloth or wet baby wipes can be used when you don’t have an access to water.
Use a dog paw balm for soothing
Since your Shiba Inu paws are exposed to many harmful elements such as street salt, sharp terrains, and hot or icy pavements, you have to keep them soothed and silky. Use a dog paw balm that contains natural ingredients such as Coconut oil, Olive oil, and Aloe Vera. They are known as some of the best natural ingredients that can heal cracks, cuts, and blisters.
Observe your Shiba Inu’s behavior
It’s normal to see your Shiba Inu licking his paws a few times a day because these pooches are famous for their tendency to clean themselves. However, if your Shiba starts to do it too often, then you should take him to the vet. Dogs who excessively lick their paws often develop conditions such as yeast infection, dermatitis, paw allergy, and different fungal or bacterial infections. Therefore, consult your vet and write all the unusual things you’ve spotted on your dog. Have you noticed if your pet releases a smelly odor from his paws? It can often be a sign of a yeast infection or bacterial infection that requires immediate treatment.
Regularly trim your Shiba Inu nails
Another important routine to keep your Shiba Inu paws healthy is to regularly trim his/her nails. Ingrown nails or unproperly trimmed nails can cause not only mobility issues but also severe pains. To help your pet get used to this routine, it’s essential to include it from an early age. Reward him with treats, trim one nail daily, and try to distract his attention while performing it. When you hear the nails are touching the ground, it’s the sign that it’s the right time for trimming.
Special paw protection during the summer and winter seasons
To protect your Shiba Inu paws from street salt, ice, sharp terrains, and hot asphalt, your dog can wear protective dog boots or summer dog sandals. Besides they provide a dog with better traction, they also keep the paws safe from hazards. Note that street salt is very poisonous if your dog loves to lick his paws after strolls.
