Dogs love to explore outdoors, but their sensitive paws are more vulnerable than many pet parents realize. Hot pavement, chemicals, or extreme weather can quickly cause burns that are painful and sometimes dangerous. Burned paws are a common issue, especially during the summer months, yet many owners don’t recognize the warning signs until the damage has already happened.
In this article, we’ll explain the causes of paw burns in dogs, the symptoms to look out for, treatment options, and preventive steps you can take to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable.
What Causes Burned Paws in Dogs?
Several everyday situations can put your dog’s paw pads at risk:
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Hot Pavement or Asphalt
- Pavement can become significantly hotter than the surrounding air temperature. On a sunny day, asphalt can reach over 140°F (60°C), hot enough to cause severe burns in seconds.
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Chemicals and Irritants
- Road salts, fertilizers, cleaning products, or de-icing chemicals can cause damage to paw pads, leading to painful burns or irritation.
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Cold Weather and Ice
- In freezing conditions, paws can crack and bleed. Walking on icy or salted roads often worsens the problem.
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Friction Burns
- Dogs running on rough surfaces, like gravel or concrete, can develop abrasions that feel like burns.
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Outdoor Hazards
- Fireworks, campfires, or walking on hot sand at the beach can also result in paw burns.
Symptoms of Burned Dog Paws
Burn injuries on a dog's paws may not be immediately apparent, but the dog will show clear signs of discomfort. Look for:
- Limping or refusing to walk
- Excessive licking or chewing of the paws
- Redness, swelling, or blisters
- Paw pads that appear darker or peeling
- Crying or whining when walking on hard surfaces
- Bleeding or open wounds in severe cases
If you notice any of these symptoms, immediate attention is necessary to reduce pain and prevent infection.
First Aid for Burned Paws
If your dog’s paws are burned, follow these steps before contacting your veterinarian:
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Move to a Cool Area
- Remove your dog from a hot or hazardous surface immediately.
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Rinse with Cool (Not Cold) Water
- Gently rinse the paws with cool water to clean away debris and reduce heat. Avoid using ice, as it can further damage the tissue.
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Apply a Pet-Safe Ointment
- Use a soothing, vet-approved paw balm or aloe vera (without additives) to reduce discomfort.
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Protect the Paws
- Wrap the paws lightly with sterile gauze to prevent further injury and stop your dog from licking them.
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Seek Veterinary Care
- Even mild burns can get infected. A vet can prescribe pain relief, antibiotics if needed, and advanced wound care.
Veterinary Treatment for Burned Paws
Your veterinarian will examine the severity of the burns and may recommend:
- Medications prescribed by your vet to ease discomfort and help your dog feel more at ease.
- Antibiotic creams or oral antibiotics to prevent infection
- Bandaging and paw protection to aid healing
- Laser therapy or advanced wound dressings for severe burns
Healing time depends on the depth of the burn, but with proper care, most dogs recover fully.
How to Prevent Burned Paws in Dogs
Prevention is always better than a cure. Here are practical tips:
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Check the Pavement
- Place your hand or bare foot on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.
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Walk at Cooler Times
- Opt for early morning or late evening walks when surfaces are cooler.
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Use Paw Protection
- Dog booties or paw wax create a barrier against hot pavement, chemicals, and ice.
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Stick to Grass or Shaded Paths
- Choose grassy parks, shaded sidewalks, or dirt trails during hot days.
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Rinse After Walks
- Wash your dog’s paws after outdoor walks to remove chemicals or irritants.
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Keep Nails and Fur Trimmed
- Proper paw grooming helps prevent debris buildup and keeps pads healthier.
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Carry Water on Walks
- Hydration helps regulate body temperature, reducing the risk of heat-related injuries.
When to Call a Veterinarian Immediately
Seek urgent veterinary care if you notice:
- Deep cracks or bleeding paw pads
- Severe limping or refusal to walk
- Blisters, pus, or signs of infection
- Burns caused by chemicals
- Continuous licking or chewing of the paws despite first aid
Quick action ensures faster healing and reduces the risk of long-term damage.
Final Thoughts
Your dog’s paws are their foundation for exploring the world, and protecting them should always be a priority. Burned paws are painful and potentially dangerous, but with awareness and preventive care, they are highly avoidable. Walking your dog during cooler hours, shielding their paws, and acting swiftly if injuries occur will help ensure they stay comfortable, healthy, and joyful all year long.
