If you live in extreme climate regions, both hot and cold, chances are that your precious pooch’s paw pads may be in need of some lovin’. Using some of the best dog paw balms can not only help soothe cracked paw pads but also help prevent dryness.
Just as with human skin, dry weather can lead to rough, cracked paws in all dog breeds. When these paws come into contact with rough surfaces like sidewalks or beach sand, they can cause extreme discomfort for your dog.
Dog paw balms to the rescue! From balms made with natural ingredients to ones that create a protective barrier, we’ve got you covered. Unsure whether your dog needs one? Read on as we break down everything you need to know about dog paw balms.
Why Should I Use Dog Paw Balm
Protective, preventative, and curative — paw balms for dogs have all three benefits. We list them below:
Protection from Rough Surfaces
Since you can’t stop taking out your dogs for walks for fear of damaging their paws, the next best thing is to protect them as best as you can. Paw balms are like a barrier between your pup’s paws and rough surfaces like hot pavement or icy sidewalks, keeping their paws safe and comfy.
Moisturizing
Just like we use lotion to keep our skin soft and supple, paw balms moisturize your dog’s pads, preventing them from getting dry, cracked, or irritated. As they say, prevention is better than cure!
Healing and Soothing
If your dog already has rough or damaged pads, paw balms can help heal them, making walking and playing more comfortable for your furry friend. Some balms also contain natural ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile, which can soothe your dog’s calloused paws.
Preventing Infections
Paw balms can help prevent infections by keeping your dog’s paw pads clean and protected from harmful bacteria or other germs they might pick up while walking outside.
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What to Look for in a Dog Paw Balm
There are a few things you must keep an eye out for before making a paw balm purchase. They are:
Natural Ingredients
Opt for a paw balm made with natural and safe ingredients like olive, coconut, jojoba oils, beeswax, oatmeal, and shea butter, as synthetic ingredients can irritate your dog’s skin. Also, if your dog has sensitivities, make sure it’s free from allergens like nuts, soy, or gluten.
Safety Standards
Because your dog is likely to lick it off as soon as it is applied, choose a balm with ingredients safe enough to be ingested. It should preferably be labeled as “food grade” or USDA Certified Organic, indicating ethical sourcing and no use of synthetic fertilizers, antibiotics, or chemicals.
Quick-drying Formula
In continuation to the above point, select a paw balm with a quick-drying formula to prevent your pup from licking it off before it can be absorbed — ensuring nourishment and moisturizer penetrate the skin quickly enough but effectively.
Multi-purpose Use
Apart from the paws, other parts of your furry friend’s body can become cracked due to dryness — look for a balm that can be used on the nose and elbows, too, provided it contains gentle, non-irritating ingredients.
Minimal Fragrance
Considering dogs’ heightened sense of smell, be mindful of the fragrance level. Heavily scented products will likely frustrate your dog, especially if applied near their sensitive nose. Opt for balms with minimal fragrance to keep your pup comfortable.
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The Best Dog Paw Balms to Buy in 2024
We at DogTime know how important it is to care for those cute little paw pads. This is why we’ve been testing out a bunch of the top-rated products. The result is this list of the best dog paw balms available in the market, so you don’t have to worry about which one to pick.
BEST OVERALL
MUSHER’S SECRET Dog Paw Wax
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BEST STICK-FORMULA
Natural Dog Company Paw Soother
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BEST RESTORATIVE
PAW NECTAR Paw Balm
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BEST LICK-SAFE
planopaws Paw Balm
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BEST ALL-SEASON
VETS PREFERRED Paw Balm
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BEST PAW BUTTER
PET HEAD Oatmeal Paw Butter
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BEST VERSATILE
Pet MD 3-in-1 Pet Balm
Check Price on ChewyBEST OVERALL
MUSHER’S SECRET Dog Paw Wax
PHOTO CREDIT: MUSHER’S SECRET
Buy on AmazonWhy We Love
Vet recommended
Quick absorbing
Nut, gluten, and soy-free
Non-sticky
Indefinite shelf life
Suitable for all dogs in all weather conditions
But…
Requires heat from the hands to be softened and applied
Originally designed to help Canadian sled dogs protect their paws from ice build-up, ice melt, and snowballing, the Musher’s Secret dog paw wax is now trusted worldwide by dog owners and veterinarians. It is loaded with natural and pet-safe ingredients, including three types of wax: beeswax, food-safe oils, and vitamin E. It forms a protective barrier on your dog’s paw pads, shielding them from harsh elements like hot pavement or icy sidewalks.
The fast-absorbing formula ensures quick application, preventing your dog from licking it off and avoiding balm stains on your floor or carpets. And you don’t have to use it only in the winter; it moisturizes dry, cracked paw pads, maintaining their softness and health all year round. Importantly, it’s safe for dogs to lick, providing you with peace of mind.
BEST STICK-FORMULA
Natural Dog Company Paw Soother
PHOTO CREDIT: Natural Dog Company
Buy on AmazonWhy We Love
Portable travel stick design
Made with all-natural ingredients
Non-toxic and pet-safe ingredients
Easy application
Made in U.S.A.
Combines properties of paw balm, wax, and lotion
But…
Not for use on the nose
When you need to soothe your dog’s paw pads on the go, this travel stick from Natural Dog Company will come in handy. It’s the same size as a lip balm stick, making it easy to carry even in a handbag. Specifically formulated to nourish, hydrate, and protect, the balm keeps your furry friend’s cute paws supple, alleviates redness, and reduces inflammation.
Made from some of nature’s best ingredients — calendula extract, vitamin E, and coconut oil — this balm ensures your pet’s safety. It’s also more than just a balm — it serves as a wax and lotion, catering to any and every paw concern that your pooch may have. Moreover, it guards effectively against damage from scratches or cuts while fostering better paw condition with its soothing properties.
BEST RESTORATIVE
PAW NECTAR Paw Balm
PHOTO CREDIT: PAW NECTAR
Buy on AmazonWhy We Love
Ideal for repairing cracked pads
Quick action
One tin lasts up to a month
Suitable for human use
Easy refund
Made from 100% organic and natural ingredients
But…
It takes a while to get absorbed
If your furry friend is already suffering from worn down, dry, and chapped paws, this organic paw balm from Paw Nectar is the ultimate solution. Formulated to repair damaged paws quickly, you’ll notice a remarkable difference within days of use — softer, healthier paws and a happier dog.
What sets Paw Nectar apart is its quality — made from skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, vitamin E, avocado oil, rosemary seed extract, and others, it is suitable for both your canine companion and you! Use it daily for best results; simply apply it generously to the paw and massage it in. With the help of this balm, you can easily save a trip to the vet as it offers immediate relief right in the comfort of your home.
BEST LICK-SAFE
planopaws Paw Balm
PHOTO CREDIT: planopaws
Buy on AmazonWhy We Love
Made from lick-safe ingredients
Easy application
Can be used in all seasons
Safe to use on the nose
Quick absorption
Stick design
But…
May not be as widely available as other brands on our list
Designed to protect against harsh weather like heat, snow, and more, the Planopaws balm is a one-stop solution to all of your furry friend’s paw woes. It features natural protective ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, almond oil, and vitamin E, all of which are lick-safe and will not harm your pooch even if they ingest it. It also dries up in seconds, so your dog may not even get to lick them in the first place.
Available in a stick form, this balm is easy to apply, suitable for all breeds and ages, and can be used in any season. Moreover, you can use the same stick for your pooch’s nose, and it will have an equally soothing effect — making it a multipurpose balm.
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BEST ALL-SEASON
VETS PREFERRED Paw Balm
PHOTO CREDIT: VETS PREFERRED
Buy on AmazonWhy We Love
Safe to use on the nose
Made from premium ingredients
Quick absorption
Spreads easily
Soothing action
Contains cold-pressed natural oils and waxes
But…
Not 100% fragrance-free
Containing the goodness of cold-pressed natural oils and waxes, the paw balm from VETS PREFERRED can be your ally in addressing calloused and dry pads while also shielding them against rough surfaces and extreme weather. Made from 10+ premium ingredients, this veterinarian-grade balm helps moisturize, soothe, and protect not just your beloved puppy’s paws but also their nose.
It is also easy and quick to apply — simply spread a thin layer on your dog’s clean and dry pads and between its toes, and wipe off any excesses with a dry cloth. If your dog does not like using paw boots, this balm can help provide paw protection in any season.
BEST PAW BUTTER
PET HEAD Oatmeal Paw Butter
PHOTO CREDIT: PET HEAD
Buy on AmazonWhy We Love
Works in both cold and hot weather
Easy to apply
Ph balanced formula
Has a pleasant oatmeal scent
Alleivates paw dryness
Safe to use on puppies
But…
The texture is a little on the greasy side
Just like skin butter is ideal for humans with dry skin, this oatmeal butter from Pet Head is great for soothing cracked pet paws and alleviating dryness. Its pH-balanced formula also protects them from hot or cold weather, letting your dog have the time of their lives outdoors. Made from lick-safe, natural ingredients, the butter is also safe to use on your pooch’s nose.
The ingredient list includes shea butter, oatmeal, mango, vitamins E and F, coconut oil, olive oil, and aloe vera — making it a mild yet effective remedy for your furry friend’s paws. Just massage it in before and after walks or playtime for it to take effect. Plus, it also has a pleasant oatmeal scent that you and your dog will love.
BEST VERSATILE
Pet MD 3-in-1 Pet Balm
PHOTO CREDIT: Pet MD
Buy on Chewy Buy on AmazonWhy We Love
Quick absorbing
Non-toxic
Perfect for dogs of all shapes and sizes
Long-lasting relief
Made in U.S.A.
Can be used on the paws, nose, and elbows
But…
Needs to be warmed in the palm before application
The Pet MD balm is a pet skin all-rounder, specifically designed to soften and soothe your pup’s paws, nose, and elbows. Brimming with 12 natural oils and butter, plus pet-safe essential oils, this balm gets absorbed deep into your dog’s skin and works on problems such as dryness and damage while also safeguarding paws from harsh elements.
The 3-in-1 balm instantly relieves dry, cracked skin and prevents further issues like bleeding and infections. It gets absorbed quickly which is a nice feature to have in a balm if you have a restless dog who wants to bolt. Since it offers long-lasting relief, it can save you money by not having to purchase products repeatedly.
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Are There Dog Paw Palm Alternatives?
Here are some alternatives to dog paw balms that can help protect your furry friend’s paws.
Dog Boots: These booties shield paws from harsh surfaces like hot pavement or icy sidewalks by acting as a protective barrier between them.
Vaseline or Petroleum Jelly: A thin coat of these products moisturizes and creates a barrier, safeguarding paw pads from dryness, cracking, and other environmental irritants.
Coconut Oil: This natural moisturizer hydrates paw pads, aiding in healing cracks and preventing further damage from rough terrain or extreme weather conditions.
Shea Butter: Known for its nourishing properties, shea butter soothes and protects pads, forming a protective film against anything that may cause cracks in your precious pooch’s paws.
Olive Oil: This natural oil can moisturize and soften paw pads, helping to prevent dryness, cracking, and discomfort caused by rugged surfaces or environmental factors.
Homemade Paw Balm: DIY balms crafted from beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter offer a customizable solution to moisturize and protect your dog’s paws effectively.
How We Chose the Best Dog Paw Balms
At DogTime, our experts curated this list of the best dog paw balms, assessing factors such as natural ingredients, safety standards, versatility, and minimal fragrance. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products, using their guidance and experience to bring our readers the very best. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
What is the best dog paw balm?
The best dog paw will depend on your dog’s specific needs. However, one which is made with natural ingredients, safe for dogs to lick, quick-drying, and multipurpose for paws, noses, and elbows, with minimal fragrance would be good for most dogs. Products like Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax and Captain Zack Paw Butter are popular choices.
Do vets recommend paw balm?
Yes, many vets recommend paw balm for dogs, especially for protection against rough surfaces, to moisturize dry paw pads, and to create a protective barrier against further damage. It is always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations based on your dog’s needs.
Can I use Vaseline instead of paw balm?
Using Vaseline as a paw balm may offer some protection, but it’s not specifically designed for dogs and may not provide the same benefits. It’s best to use a paw balm made for dogs or specialized dog paw cream for cracked paws to ensure their pads stay healthy.
Can I use coconut oil on my dog’s paws?
Yes, coconut oil is a safe ingredient for dogs to ingest and can be used on their paws as a natural moisturizer and protectant. However, it may not offer all the benefits of a paw balm designed specifically for dogs, so keep this in mind.
Is paw balm safe for dogs to lick?
Yes, most dog nose and paw balms are made with dog-safe ingredients and are usually safe for dogs to lick. However, using the balm in excessive amounts may cause GI issues in your dog. Choosing a balm labeled as food-grade or natural is best to ensure it won’t harm your furry friend if ingested.
Is paw balm worth it?
If prioritizing your dog’s comfort and health is important to you, then yes, paw balm is worth it. It protects your dog’s paws from rough surfaces, moisturizes dry pads, and prevents irritation.
How do I know if my dog needs paw balm?
If you notice your dog’s paw pads looking dry, cracked, or rough, it’s a clear indication that they could benefit from paw balm. Similarly, if they seem to be licking or chewing at their paws more often than usual, it may suggest discomfort or irritation. Dogs may exhibit these behaviors due to exposure to harsh weather conditions, walking on rough surfaces like concrete or gravel, or even allergies. Applying paw balm can help soothe their paws. You can also stay a step ahead by regularly checking and caring for your dog’s paws.
