My Dog
Thirty seconds after a walk catches most of the small problems before they become sore ones.
Paws take a beating and dogs are stoic about them. A quick look after walks is one of the easiest habits to build.
Nails that are too long change how a dog stands and can make walking uncomfortable, so they're worth staying on top of.
Step 1
Support it from underneath rather than gripping. If your dog pulls away, let them — then try again later with a treat in your other hand.
Step 2
Grass seeds, grit, road salt and small stones love it in there. In winter, rinse and dry the paws after gritted pavements.
Step 3
They should be supple. Cracks, splits, redness or a paw that's warmer than the others are worth a closer look.
Step 4
In hairy-footed dogs it mats and picks things up. A careful trim level with the pads helps a lot with grip too.
Step 5
Take off just the tip, then stop. Little and often is far safer than one big session, and reward calmly all the way through.
If you can hear clicking on a hard floor, they're probably a bit long. Most dogs need a trim every three to six weeks.
Press the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If you can't hold it there, it's too hot for paws — walk early or late instead.
Based on guidance from
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