Between wind-whip walks, salty sidewalks and that “wait, is that ice or a puddle?” moment, shoreline winters can be tough on paws, skin and safety. Here’s what to watch for, plus some simple remedies that keep your pets comfy (and your floors less… paw-printed).
1) Salt + ice melt = irritated, cracked paws
Road salt and de-icers can dry paw pads, cause redness/burning, and lead to licking (which can upset bellies if they ingest residue). It’s also best not to assume public areas use pet-friendly products.
What you’ll notice: limping, excessive licking, pink/raw pads, reluctance to walk, “holding” up a paw.
What to do:
Use a paw balm as your pup’s “invisible boot” – paw balms create a protective barrier and help condition dry pads.
Our favorite: Musher’s Secret – tried-and-true wax barrier (originally developed for sled dogs!), is made with natural waxes/oils and commonly includes ingredients like beeswax and vitamin E (conditioning + protection), plus it has a local connection: while the product itself is made in Canada, it’s distributed through Treadwell Pet Products in Haddam, CT – so it has a legit hometown tie-in for we shoreline folks.
Other paw balms worth checking out:
- Fera Pet PawBiome Pet Balm – USDA organic certification and soothing formula
- PawTection by Natural Dog Company – made in the US and is a blend of all natural waxes and oils.
- Muttluks Pawmagik – organic beeswax-based and designed for protection from ice/snow and heal, soothe and moisturize
- Vets Preferred Paw Balm – natural oils and waxes, soothes cracked paw pads
Pro tips:
- If your dog licks everything you put on their feet, choose pet-specific products and apply right before you head out, then distract with a treat/toy while it absorbs.
- Wipe down your dog’s feet immediately upon return with Natural Dog Paw Wipes or another hypoallergenic wipe (get between those toe beans!).
Consider booties for “salt warriors” – Some dogs do best with booties – especially those with allergies, very sensitive pads or frequent city/sidewalk walks. If your dog hates booties at first, start with short indoor practice sessions and high-value treats.
Some of our favorites (that will stay put and pass the test of time!):
- Canada Pooch – water-resistant and have different options
- Kurgo – water-resistant with sole designed to mimic dog’s paw shape
- Ruffwear – great traction, made for walking…and walking…and walking
- Wagwear – wellies that are stylish and come in an array of colors
2) Wind chill on the shoreline
The same temperature feels colder when it’s windy and damp, especially for small dogs, seniors, puppies, short-coated breeds and pets with health issues. Hypothermia and frostbite are real risks when the temps dip low.
What to do: consider giving your pup an extra layer of protection with a sweater, jacket or coat and check their ears and extremities during walks.
A few winter coat favorites of ours:
- GF Pet – a variety of puffer coats and other options that feature a patented elastic system
- Spark Paws – a plethora of options, from lightweight jackets (for those breeds who need lighter protection!) to insulated jackets
- Hurrta – lightweight to very warm waterproof and breathable options
- Canada Pooch – puffers and snowsuits (as well as waterproof rain coats!)
3) Antifreeze + winter chemicals
Antifreeze is dangerously toxic, and even small amounts can be fatal. Spills in driveways/garages are the classic culprit, as are drips from underneath cars.
What to do: Make your driveway safer (without turning it into a chemistry lab)
If you use ice melt at home:
- Choose products labeled pet-safe (many use ingredients like urea or magnesium chloride that are generally considered gentler than other options, though no de-icer is 100% safe if eaten).
- Use the minimum needed, sweep up excess and wipe down paws afterward (to avoid paw irritation and ingestion from licking).
Cold Weather Pro Tips:
Keep outdoor time smart
- Shorten walks during bitter wind/wet snow; provide extra indoor enrichment instead (snuffle mats, food puzzles, training games).
- Add a coat (and maybe booties) for sensitive, short-haired dogs or anyone who shivers or gets cold.
Hydration + humidity matter
Indoor heat dries skin (and sometimes noses/paws). Encourage drinking and consider a humidifier if your home gets very dry.
Quick “When to call the vet” checklist – call your vet if you see:
- Cracked pads that are bleeding or won’t heal
- Persistent limping
- Signs of chemical exposure (drooling, vomiting, lethargy)
- Suspected antifreeze ingestion/exposure = emergency
The WLTDO winter routine we swear by:
Before the walk: Paw balm (Musher’s Secret is our go-to)
During the walk: Checking paws/extremities and tolerance levels
After the walk: Warm wipe + dry + quick paw check
During stormy weeks: Shorter outings + enrichment at home