We can all agree with the fact that Shiba Inus are one of the greatest fans of the winter season. They enjoy rolling in the snow, jumping, and playing with their owners because nothing can beat time spent on those powdery carpets. Luckily, their double-layered coats allow them to spend plenty of time outdoors and keep them safe from hypothermia. However, their paw pads still remain vulnerable to harmful effects such as ice, cold, sharp terrains, and road salt. That’s why you have to think about how to keep your Shiba Inu’s paws safe in the winter.
What are the best ways to keep your Shiba Inu paws in the winter safe from cold and harmful elements?
Did you know that dogs regulate their body temperature through their paw pads? That’s right! Paw pads are the only place on the dog’s body where they can sweat and maintain their optimal body temperature. Therefore, keeping those tiny body parts safe is one of the first things to keep in mind from the moment you’ve become a dog owner.
Regularly check your Shiba Inu paws
Besides using dog paw balms to keep them soothed and moist, it’s also important to regularly check them for a stuck plant, pebbles, and other elements that could harm those tiny body parts that do a lot for their bodies.
Just like we wash our hands every time we get back home, our furry friends should also wash their paws from dirt and allergens. Your dog’s paws can even pick up toxic chemicals from outside that he could later lick when lie down to have a rest. Therefore, make sure your Shiba always has clean paws when getting back from a stroll. You can perform cleaning with baby wet wipes or by using a paw cleaning cup that thoroughly cleans all the mud and dirt.
Use dog paw balms
Paw balms that contain Coconut oil, Olive Oil, and Shea butter will be the best pick for your furry friend. These three ingredients heal cracked and dry skin, and also provide a protective barrier to a dog’s paws. Make sure you buy dog-safe paw balms because applying human creams is not allowed. Human cosmetics often contain Zinc and other ingredients that could be toxic to your Shiba Inu.
Shiba Inu paws deserve to wear waterproof dog boots
Teaching your dog to wear protective footwear is the best option to keep his paws safe from road salt, icy and cold surfaces, and sharp terrains. They’ll not only keep his paws dry and warm, but will also save you from cleaning when you get back home. Snow and ice also increase the risk of getting frostbites, leaving the skin cracked, irritated, and painful. Besides, outdoor chemicals and road salt can cause chemical burns and even poisoning if your dog licks the paws.
Buying quality dog winter boots will also help senior pooches enjoy their walks. They provide better traction, keep the joints firm, and help older dogs walk easily. Our recommendation is to look for booties with anti-slip soles that feature hard patterns for better walking on icy and sharp pavements.
If your Shiba Inu doesn’t feel comfortable wearing boots, we advise you to keep the walks short, and gradually teach him/her to implement this routine. Use lots of treats, practice wearing boots at home, and shower your furry friend with praise words.
Wrapping up
Even though Shiba Inus have thick coats, leaving them to spend a lot of time outside in the winter can lead to hypothermia and frostbites. That’s why it’s equally important to dress them into warm winter jackets. A waterproof Shiba Inu jacket will keep your dog’s fur and skin dry, making him/her more comfortable to spend time outside in the winter.
