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Dry paw pads, small cracks, or sensitive paws are not uncommon in dogs – especially in winter, but also in summer on hot asphalt or after long walks. Paw balm can help, but it doesn’t have to be expensive or packed with unnecessary additives. The good news: you can easily make a simple dog paw balm yourself. That way, you know exactly what’s in it – and you avoid questionable ingredients.

Why homemade paw balm makes sense

Many ready-made products contain fragrances, preservatives, or essential oils that aren’t ideal for dogs. Dogs lick their paws, and everything you apply will sooner or later end up in their mouth. A homemade balm uses only a few well-tolerated ingredients.

You can also adjust the texture and composition to suit your dog – whether they have very sensitive paws or only need occasional care.

Ingredients that have proven effective

A good paw balm doesn’t need a long list of ingredients. Less is clearly more here. Natural fats and waxes that protect the skin and keep it supple work particularly well:

• plant-based oils such as olive oil or coconut oil
• beeswax to create a protective layer
• shea butter to care for dry skin

These ingredients are well tolerated, easy to work with, and form a stable base for the balm.

How to make the paw balm

Making the balm is simple and only takes a few minutes. Gently melt the solid ingredients in a water bath, stir in the liquid oils, and then pour the mixture into a clean, small container. As it cools, the balm will solidify.

It’s important not to use essential oils or fragrances. What smells pleasant to humans can irritate a dog’s skin or cause problems once the balm is licked off.

How to use it properly – less is more

Paw balm works best when used sparingly. A small amount is more than enough. Gently massage the balm into the paw pads, ideally after a walk or before bedtime.

If your dog tends to lick their paws immediately, distract them briefly or apply the balm when they’re already settling down. This gives it time to absorb.

In practice, this often works well if you give your dog a chew to keep them occupied. If your dog finds the balm on their paws more interesting than the chew, you have three options:

1. Give your dog better chews 😉 Lick mats with frozen toppings, sniffing mats, and stuffed (frozen) Kongs can also keep your dog’s tongue away from their paws and the balm.
2. Distract them with petting or play.
3. Put breathable dog socks on your dog.

When paw balm is not enough

Care products are helpful – especially for prevention – but they don’t replace medical evaluation. If you notice deep cracks, open wounds, severe swelling, or constant licking, you should take a closer look:

• persistent pain or limping
• bleeding or inflamed paw pads
• noticeable heat or swelling

In such cases, the problem should be handled by a veterinarian – and as quickly as possible. Also keep in mind that while paw balm can improve the resilience of the skin, it does not protect against gravel, sharp stones, broken glass, or extreme temperatures.

Chemical influences – such as road salt or weed killers – can and will continue to harm your dog’s paws.

Well-fitting dog boots solve this problem and should therefore be part of your dog’s basic equipment. It’s important to choose a model that truly fits and to patiently get your dog used to wearing them – ideally before they are injured or urgently need the boots for other reasons.

Homemade paw balm: simple, affordable, and dog-friendly

Making your own dog paw balm is easy, inexpensive, and sensible. You know exactly what goes on your dog’s paws and can avoid anything unnecessary or potentially problematic. With regular, sparing use, the paw pads stay supple and resilient – no matter the season.

Still, remember that paw balm alone does not block or compensate for all harmful influences. Caution, proper paw care, and dog boots may also be necessary to ensure your dog can walk safely and without pain.

Sometimes, it really is the simple things that work best.