Do you know how to make your own dog paw balm?
With the arrival of winter, the paws of many dogs, especially those that are not adapted for the cold climate, can suffer from the cold asphalt.
To fight dryness and cracks in your pup’s paws, there are many balms and creams sold in stores, but today we bring you a recipe for a balm that you can make at home.
Continue reading below to learn how to make your own dog paw balm!
Recipe: Homemade Dog Paw Balm
Required Items:
- A small kitchen scale
- Small pot or double boiler
- 21-24 standard lip balm tubes OR 6 1-oz. cans
Ingredients:
- 4 tsp. beeswax
- 2 oz. (or 2 tbsp.) coconut oil
- 2 oz. (or 2 tbsp.) olive oil, sunflower oil, or sweet almond oil
- 1 oz. (or 1 tbsp.) shea butter
Read More: What To Do If Your Dog Eats Chocolate
Method of Preparation
In a small pot over low heat, melt the oils, shea butter, and beeswax. Stir continuously until everything is melted and well mixed, then follow the steps below:
- Carefully pour the mixture into lip balm tubes and/or cans.
- Let them cool on the counter until they are hard.
- Cap and label.
- Keep away from extreme heat.
- Apply the balm as a preventative treatment or to help soothe dry paw pads or noses. Use within 1 – 2 years.
Read More: 6 Fun Things To Do With Your Dog in the Winter Months
Protecting your Pup’s Paws from the Cold
With the intense cold, it may also be necessary to reinforce the protection of your pup’s paws. Below are some options, in addition to the balm:
Wearing Boots
It’s not just the cat that can wear boots! For days of intense cold, canine boots can be effective in protecting your pup’s paws from icy asphalt, snow, road salt, and antifreeze. Antifreeze, as we have already discussed, can be very dangerous for dogs.
Trimming
Keeping the fur on the paws neatly trimmed is much better than leaving them furry during the winter. Hair can cause snow to form balls between the toes, which can cause cracks and cuts. Also, sidewalk salt sticks to the hair and the dog instinctively cleans it by licking it.
Wiping the Paws
If it is not possible to wear boots, you can clean your pup’s paws when you return home. As we mentioned in another post, snow, salt, and antifreeze products can be harmful to your pup.
Read More: Does Weather Affect Dog Behavior?
Conclusion – How To Make Your Own Dog Paw Balm
With the cold reaching its peak, you may want to consider how you will protect your pup’s paws against the effects of snow, ice, and frozen asphalt. Homemade balm can be a good option, as you can make a large amount and use it for up to two years.
Dog Walker Astoria
If you require help providing socialization opportunities for your dog and you live in Astoria, you can enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with Buster and Whiskers. We offer daily 1-hour Socialization Walks. If your pup is under-socialized, we will work with them to help desensitize them and get them ready for our Group Socialization Walks. You must live within our Astoria coverage area. In addition, your dog must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Laying a strong foundation in socialization is the best gift you can give your pup for a long and happy life together!
Buster and Whiskers is The #1 Dog Walking Service in Astoria, NY. If your dog needs more exercise or social interaction, enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with us. Contact us for a professional and reliable Dog Walker in Astoria! Follow us on Instagram!
