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Irritated Paws in Dogs: Why They Turn Red, Pink, and Inflamed in Winter

Vet Talks 4 min read

Seeing your dog’s paws turn red, pink, or inflamed in winter is concerning – especially when they start licking or limping. Irritated dog paws are surprisingly common during the colder months, and many pet parents notice flare-ups as soon as temperatures drop. So why do so many dogs develop paw irritation during cold weather – and what can you do to help?

In this blog, we’ll walk through the most common causes of winter paw irritation, the seasonal triggers that make symptoms worse, simple at-home care tips, and gentle, natural ways to support your dog’s comfort all season long.

Why Winter Causes Paw Irritation 

Why does winter cause irritated paws in dogs? The answer is actually pretty simple.

Cold weather itself is the biggest trigger. Direct contact with ice, snow, and cold surfaces can greatly irritate a dog’s paws, as studies show. Winter air is also naturally dry, and indoor heating removes even more moisture from your dog’s skin.

Many pets wind up drinking less water in the cold weather, which means their paw pads get drier and more sensitive. Throw in the fact that de-icing chemicals can work their way into paws – and you’ve got a perfect storm for irritated dog paws.

Common Causes Behind Red & Inflamed Paws 

As mentioned above, winter coldness can cause irritated paws in dogs. But these issues can get worse as winter goes on.

When exposed to cold conditions for long stretches of time, the paws start to get poor blood circulation, which starves the cells of vital nutrients. If this goes on long enough, it can lead to cell damage and other problems with your pet’s paws. You may see redness, inflammation, irritation, and in some cases, actual damage to the paws themselves.

Other Causes

Although the cold weather may worsen certain paw-related conditions, not all irritated paws are linked to cold weather.

Many cases result from conditions that can occur year-round. The most common are infectious causes such as yeast, or bacteria. These often develop when a dog repeatedly licks or scratches their paws, creating small openings in the skin that allow infections to take hold.

Trauma is another frequent cause – anything from minor scrapes and cuts after intense physical activity, to irritation from something caught between the toes. Less commonly, issues like immune-related, genetic, metabolic, or even growth-related conditions can also make paw pads more sensitive and prone to irritation. A veterinarian will be able to best help determine the cause of the irritation.

When to See a Vet

Most mild paw irritation improves with simple care at home, but some situations need professional attention. Contact your veterinarian if:

  • There’s a visible injury, wound, or ulcer
  • Redness or inflammation doesn’t improve on its own
  • Your dog shows signs of pain, such as limping or reduced mobility
  • You notice symptoms of infection, including bad odor, discharge, or hair loss

A quick check-up can help prevent the issue from getting worse and ensure your dog gets the right treatment.

Winter Paw Care Tips

There are a few simple ways to help keep a dog’s paws safe and comfortable during the winter.

Using dog shoes can offer physical protection from the elements, as well as de-icing chemicals, which can quickly irritate the skin. If your dog is wearing boots – especially during long walks or hikes – check their paws occasionally to make sure everything looks comfortable and dry. Generally, a dog should not wear booties for longer than 2 – 4 hours.

Try to avoid long periods of exposure to extreme snow and ice. The saying “If you’re cold, they’re cold” can be helpful to keep in mind.

Hydration is also essential in winter. Many dogs drink less when it’s cold, so offering options like warm bone broth can help encourage better water intake and keep the skin more hydrated.

For added support, consider supplementing with omega-3 oils, such as those found in NHV Petomega 3. These healthy fats help nourish the skin from within and may improve overall paw health throughout the winter and beyond.

Supplements for Irritated Paws in Dogs

Certain supplements may help calm irritation in your dog’s paws. These include:

  • NHV Heal Care: A gentle balm that can help keep paw pads soft and may reduce dryness or minor cracks. Use it before heading out to add a layer between the paw and rough surfaces, cold, and salt.
  • NHV Petomega 3: Omega-3 fatty acids support overall skin health and hydration, which can help maintain healthy paw pads over time.
  • NHV Stimmune: Designed to support the immune system, it may help dogs better cope with mild infections or skin irritations.
  • NHV Turmeric: Turmeric is often used to support normal inflammatory responses and support overall wellness.

Help for Cracked Winter Paws

Irritated paws are common in winter, but with the right care and attention, most dogs can stay comfortable and healthy. If you have questions or want personalized advice, our Pet Experts are here to help. Please feel welcome to chat with us below!

Dr. Carla Moran, DVM

Dr. Carla Moran, DVM

Dr. Carla Moran graduated from the University of Chile in Veterinary Medicine and later obtained a Diploma in Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases from the same university. She has had the opportunity to learn from diverse areas of the veterinary profession through her professional training, like small animal medicine, wildlife conservation, and public health. Dr. Moran loves being able to support animals and their guardians through natural medicine, and she strongly believes that nature can provide us with what every being needs to be happy and healthy, mentally, and physically.

Published: December 9, 2025

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