Seasons
Road Salt and Cold: Protecting Your Dog's Paws This Winter
Updated : October 15, 2026
After Halloween, winter is never far in Quebec. The first cold snaps bring road salt, ice and snow, which can irritate your dog's paws. It is best to prepare now.
What threatens the paws
- Salt and de-icing products: they irritate the skin between the pads and can cause cracking.
- Ice and packed snow: they get stuck between the toes, especially on long-haired dogs.
- Intense cold: pads can crack and become painful.
The right habits
- Wipe the paws when you come home with a warm, damp cloth, to remove salt before it gets licked.
- Trim the hair between the pads if snow builds up there. A groomer can do it.
- Keep nails short: better grip on ice.
- Try boots: introduce them early, a few minutes at a time, with treats.
- Use a protective pet balm on the pads before heading out.
Watch for: if your dog limps, licks their paws constantly or the skin is red or cracked, have the paws checked. Swallowed salt can also cause stomach upset.
Think about overall comfort
Shorten outings during deep cold, keep a coat for short-haired or small dogs, and never leave your dog alone in a cold car.