Can You Put Vaseline on a Dog’s Paw?

Vaseline is not a go-to product when it comes to moisturizing your dog’s paws, using vaseline as a moisturizer has its setbacks. Dogs are naturally attracted to Vaseline due to its smell and fatty nature and taste. In this article, you will find out why Vaseline is not the best option for moisturizing your dog’s paw and its best alternative.

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Content:

1. How to Moisturize Dog Paws
2. Can I Put Vaseline on My Dog
3. What Else Can Moisturize My Dog's Paws
4. Conclusion

How to Moisturize Dog Paws

Dogs' paws could easily get dry, which makes it quite uncomfortable for dog parents. Seeing cracks and sores on the paws of your dog could be upsetting. Harsh elements such as hard surfaces, rocks, terrains, or sharp objects could be some of the reasons why your dog often has cracked paws.

With the Petcube Camera, you could watch out for these elements and prevent your dog from walking on these surfaces and getting cracked or sore paws. There are varied options of safe moisturizers to choose from, and applying them is a no-brainer.

• Firstly, clean the paw of your dog thoroughly with a moist towel and dry it out with a clean piece of cloth.
• Then, gently rub some moisturizer gel generously on the paw, making sure to get in between the digits.
• Make sure your dog is calm and in a good mood while doing this, either on its back or side.
• You can give your dog some treats afterwards for cooperating to encourage it to oblige next time.
• Doing this more often or with a routine will keep the paws moisturized longer and prevent further cracks.

Can I Put Vaseline on My Dog

Vaseline might be an excellent moisturizer for humans but not for dogs since it could be ingested and cause some stomach complications. It makes your dog prone to diarrhea and stomach upset when ingested excessively. It has no soothing effect or antibacterial properties but would rather make the paws drier in the long run.

I have received reports from some clients whose dogs ingested lots of Vaseline accidentally and were showing symptoms of stomach upset like diarrhea. Vaseline is not really toxic, but when taken in large amounts, could lead to this symptom.

“My dog ate half a large jar of Vaseline and had greasy poop all over the sofa”, - Reddit User

Using Vaseline on the dog is not advisable as you won’t benefit more than you will have to deal with. Though easy to apply and readily available, Vaseline would only trap dirt and moisture but keep the paws dry later on. If used cautiously, it might have a few beneficial effects on your dog but so much.

What Else Can Moisturize My Dog's Paws

Research has it that paw irritation, inflammation, and breakage are common conditions amongst heavy breeds of dogs and dogs with wide-based paws, flat feet and a scoped-shaped, webbed paw which may all contribute to the need for a moisturizer. There are numerous effective moisturizers out there for your dog, but it is also important to know their properties, effects and possible side effects.

A good moisturizer would have the following effect on your dog:

• Keep the paws moist
• Prevent cracks and breakage
• Improves the health of the paws
• Protects against extreme temperatures
• Protect against harsh surfaces
• Supports healing
• Soothes irritation
• No discernible odour
• Absorbs quickly
• Long-lasting effect
• Convenient to use

When picking the right moisturizer, have it in mind that your dog may lick or ingest some of it while grooming. Therefore, picking a non-toxic moisturizer is crucial. In case of toxicity and in need of an emergency treatment, you can take advantage of the Petcube Emergency Fund that covers up to $3000 in vet fees. Sign up now using the exclusive link to enjoy a 27% discount.

“Always use cleaning and moisturizing products designed for dogs to prevent toxicity and reaction”, - Dr. Barri J. Morrison

In general, studies have shown that balms containing essential oils and fatty acids have a significant alleviating effect on paw dryness. Here are some of the recommended options that can help moisturize your dog’s paw:

• Paw wax (Musher’s Secret)
• Vitamin E oil
• Paw balm (Pet MD Balm)
• Paw soothers
• Shea butter
• Coconut oil
• Beeswax

Conclusion

Vaseline may be a readily available and easy-to-use moisturizer but does not give the needed soothing effect a dog paw needs. Moisturizers such as paw waxes and balms are best for moisturizing, soothing, and paw protection. Dog parents should consider reading labels of moisturizering products before using it on their dog. Also, consulting a vet for recommendations would help avoid side effects.