We often think of grooming as mostly brushing and bathing, but paw care is just as important. Dogs use their paws every single day, and when hair around their pads becomes overgrown, it can lead to a lot of small problems. Therefore, shaving a dog’s paws isn’t just for looks. It helps prevent matting, keeps debris out, and improves grip on slippery floors.
In addition, long hair between the toes can trap dirt, moisture, and even small stones. That is to say, what starts as a cosmetic detail quickly turns into a hygiene and health issue. For dogs who spend time outside or walk in snowy or muddy conditions, paw shaving becomes even more essential.
Breeds That Commonly Need Paw Shaving
Not every dog needs their paws shaved, but some definitely do. Breeds like Golden Retrievers, Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, and Poodles often have thick hair that grows between the paw pads. Likewise, many doodle breeds have dense or curly coats that can easily mat in these hard-to-reach areas.
Some owners are surprised to learn that even large working dogs, such as Bernese Mountain Dogs, benefit from regular paw shaving. Similarly, smaller breeds with feathery coats can also develop clumps of fur that drag in dust and debris. In these cases, we find that shaving the paws not only improves cleanliness but also makes regular walks more comfortable.
Signs That It’s Time to Trim Your Dog’s Paws
If you notice your dog slipping on tile or hardwood floors, it may not just be their nails. Long fur between the paw pads can reduce traction, making dogs more prone to sliding. Most importantly, dogs who chew or lick at their paws often are telling us something feels off. In other words, hair caught between the pads could be irritating or itchy.
Other signs to watch for include knots or clumps of fur near the toes. These mats can pull at the skin and trap things like salt or seeds. Furthermore, dirty or moist paw fur can lead to bacterial growth, which often results in a bad smell or skin irritation. When you notice any of these, it’s likely time to trim.
Benefits of Keeping Paw Hair Short
Trimming paw hair does more than keep things tidy. Firstly, it improves grip, which helps with mobility. This is especially helpful for older dogs or those with joint issues. Secondly, it reduces the chance of mats forming, which are painful and tough to remove.
Shaved paws also dry faster after walks in rain or snow. That means less chance of fungal or bacterial buildup from constant dampness. For instance, dogs with long hair between their toes may develop infections more frequently if their paws never dry properly. By staying ahead of these problems, we avoid costly vet visits and discomfort for our pets.
For those looking into regular paw care as part of a routine, professional Dog Grooming in Calgary can be a smart way to stay on top of it without hassle. Some dogs don’t tolerate foot handling well, so it helps to have a groomer who knows what they’re doing.
How We Shave Dog Paws Safely
Shaving paws needs to be done carefully. We start by ensuring the dog is calm and comfortable. After that, we gently spread the toes and inspect the pads for any signs of injury or buildup. Clippers with safety guards help avoid nicks, but they still require a steady hand.
We also use proper angles to follow the shape of the paw. Most importantly, we avoid getting too close to the skin. Paw pads are sensitive, and if shaved too short, the skin can become irritated. For instance, if a dog is prone to licking, even a small irritation can lead to overgrooming or infection.
We always trim the nails at the same time. This helps avoid situations where overgrown nails cause the dog to walk awkwardly. And since many dogs resist foot handling, combining paw shaving with other grooming tasks helps reduce stress and effort overall.
Seasonal Factors That Make a Difference
Paw care often becomes more important depending on the season. During winter, snow and road salt stick to fur between the toes. Consequently, this can cause dryness, cracking, or even chemical burns. Shaving the fur shorter reduces the surface area where snow can cling and freeze.
In warmer months, burrs, seeds, and tiny stones are common in parks or hiking trails. These can easily get caught in fluffy paw hair. Likewise, wet paws in summer often attract bacteria, especially after swimming. Keeping the fur trimmed allows for faster drying and easier inspection.
That said, not all dogs should have their paws shaved to the skin. We use judgment based on the dog’s lifestyle and coat type. Some breeds rely on their foot fur for natural protection. So, while a full shave isn’t always necessary, tidying the hair to prevent clumps and discomfort is still wise.
When to Leave It to the Professionals
You might feel confident handling simple grooming tasks, but paw shaving isn’t always straightforward. Dogs that fidget, pull, or react to touch make the process more difficult. As a result, inexperienced handling may lead to accidental cuts or injuries.
Professional groomers know how to hold the paws properly and which tools to use for different coat types. More importantly, we can spot early signs of paw issues like fungus, cracked pads, or infections. In addition, a trained groomer will know when a dog’s paws simply need trimming versus a more involved clean-up.
For regular maintenance or a full spa visit, scheduling with a grooming team that understands paw health is often the safer and easier option. We offer dog washing services in Calgary that include gentle cleaning, drying, and shaving of the paws as part of the routine.
How Often Should It Be Done?
There is no single schedule that fits all dogs. Some need their paws shaved every few weeks, while others may go months without needing attention. It depends on coat type, how active the dog is, and whether the dog plays outdoors regularly.
A good guideline is to check the paws every few weeks. If the hair looks long, if debris gets trapped, or if mats are forming, it’s time for a trim. Similarly, if your dog shows signs of discomfort or excessive licking, that’s a signal not to ignore.
In between appointments, brushing the paws and checking between the toes helps catch problems early. That way, we prevent small issues from turning into painful or expensive ones. If it’s been a while since your dog’s last trim, or you’re unsure how to handle it yourself, you can easily book grooming online in Calgary.
Extra Insight: Watch for Paw Pad Sensitivity
One thing many people overlook is how sensitive a dog’s paw pads become after a fresh shave. Even when done properly, exposed skin between the toes can feel different. Therefore, we always check for pad softness and ensure no excess pressure is applied while trimming.
After shaving, we recommend avoiding rough or hot surfaces for a day or two. For example, sidewalks on sunny days can burn soft paws. Likewise, snowy or salted roads can sting freshly trimmed areas. Using dog boots or keeping walks short after grooming is a helpful way to let your dog adjust.
We also apply a paw balm or gentle moisturizer after shaving. In other words, taking care of your dog’s feet after a grooming session helps the benefits last longer and prevents irritation.
FAQs
How do I know if my dog’s paw fur is too long?
If you can see tufts of fur sticking out between the toes or paw pads, it’s probably too long. Slipping, licking, or visible mats are also clear signs it’s time for a trim.
Is it safe to shave all the hair off my dog’s feet?
It’s safer to trim than to completely shave. Some dogs need more hair left between their pads for natural protection, especially in rough or cold conditions.
Will my dog’s paws be itchy after trimming?
Sometimes, yes. If the hair is cut too short or the skin is irritated, dogs may lick or scratch. Using a paw balm and keeping the area clean usually prevents this.
Can I shave my dog’s paws at home?
You can, but be cautious. Use proper grooming clippers, go slow, and avoid shaving too close to the skin. If your dog resists or the fur is badly matted, it’s better to see a groomer.
How often should I trim my dog’s paw hair?
Check every 3 to 4 weeks. Some dogs may need monthly trims, while others go longer. It depends on how fast the hair grows and how active your dog is outdoors.