Last Updated on June 22, 2023 by ellen
Dogs’ paws are one of the most neglected parts of their bodies. They do not have to be with this homemade dry paw balm recipe.
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Dogs’ paws can get dry and cracked in winter or when they spend a lot of time outdoors walking on concrete. The cracks can become infected if they are left untreated so it is important to take care of them regularly.
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Homemade Dry Paw Balm Recipe
Making your own paw balm recipe is easy and will help keep your dog’s feet healthy without spending too much money on store-bought products with ingredients you may not trust. This homemade paw balm recipe contains only natural ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, and olive oil which makes it safe for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies to chemicals found in many commercial brands.
Why do my dog’s paws crack?
There are several reasons why your dog’s paws may be getting dry.
1) If you live in very cold or hot climates, the pads of your dog’s feet will get extremely dry in winter or summer. This is because they are exposed to either very cold or hot surfaces for extended periods of time when outdoors making them prone to cracks.
2) If your dog likes to walk on rough surfaces, such as concrete or asphalt, his paws will get dry and cracked too.
3) Injuries from stepping on sharp objects can leave cracks in the paw pads, whereas licking their paws excessively may indicate allergies.
4) Allergies can also cause a dog’s paw pads to become red, inflamed, and develop blisters.
5) In addition to the exposure to extremely cold or hot surfaces, exposure of your dog’s paws to the salt used on roads in winter can cause dryness and cracking.
6) If your dog spends time outside without protective footwear like boots, his feet and toes will get dry and cracked.
All of these causes can be prevented or lessened with regular maintenance for your dog’s paws. Make a batch of this homemade dry paw balm recipe.
How long does homemade paw balm last?
Once you make it, keep it in a tin can or other suitable container and store it in the fridge. Like any other homemade balm recipe, this one will solidify when cold so you need to apply it before giving your dog a walk.
Properly stored, it should last for a year or two.
Can I use paw balm in the summer?
You can but the ingredients will melt with warmer temperatures. You can store it in your fridge during the summertime and use it as a palm softening oil during the warmer months.
Can I use dry paw balm on my dog’s nose?
Yes, this homemade paw balm recipe can be used on your dog’s paw pads, nose, and other dry areas. Or, you can try my nose butter recipe.
Ingredients
- 1/4 Cup Beeswax
- 1/4 Cup Coconut Oil
- 1 Tsp Vitamin E Oil
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- Container (metal or plastic)
Homemade dry paw balm recipe
This homemade dry paw balm recipe is very simple to make in just a few steps.
Step 1: In a microwave-safe dish, melt the beeswax. You want to heat it in 20-second intervals and string it after each heating.
Step 2: Stir in the other ingredients and mix until fully combined. You may need to heat a little more to make sure it is fully mixed and 100% liquid.
Step 3: Pour into a container and allow to cool before using.
Note: This balm is on the harder side, like chapstick. If you would like it a little softer, you can use a little less wax and another tablespoon of olive oil.
Can I add essential oils?
Essential oils can be very dangerous to dogs especially when applied topically to an area that is cracked. I would not recommend it in this dry paw balm recipe. If you are in doubt, please ask your veterinarian’s advice.
How to use this dry paw balm
Apply a dime-sized amount in between your dog’s toes and on the paw pads. Work it in gently, but do not rub aggressively.
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Dry Paw Balm Recipe
Dogs’ paws are one of the most neglected parts of their bodies. They do not have to be with this homemade dry paw balm recipe
Materials
- 1/4 Cup Beeswax
- 1/4 Cup Coconut Oil
- 1 Tsp Vitamin E Oil
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- Container (metal or plastic)
Tools
- microwave
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe dish, melt the beeswax. You want to heat it in 20-second intervals and string it after each heating.
- Stir in the other ingredients and mix until fully combined. You may need to heat a little more to make sure it is fully mixed and 100% liquid.
- Pour into a container and allow to cool before using.
Notes
This balm is on the harder side, like chapstick. If you would like it a little softer, you can use a little less wax and another tablespoon of olive oil.
Ellen runs a small pet sitting business in southern Vermont. She has experience with a variety of small animals, dogs and cats. She has also cared for ducks, chickens and rabbits. Combined, she has over 20 years of experience in pet care and pet sitting.