Should hair between dog pads be trimmed?
Jared Larkin
2025-08-06 16:19:20
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Leaving the hair in the pads and only trimming it flush with the pad or a very scoop in the pad area is more on trend now because we are beginning to realize that the hair is actually there to protect the tender skin between the toes. The hair is actually there to protect the tender skin between the toes. The pad is less likely to be damaged by foreign objects in the environment as well if there is a little bit of hair. Dogs who lick their feet are less likely to cause bleeding and sores in the foot itself if a little hair is left. In cocker spaniels and other dogs prone to yeast, shaving the pads really tight can easily result in a yeast infection being able to take root in the pads. If the dog is antsy or tends to kick, then use a 40 blade and just skim the pads without going in between the pads and toes. This will also minimize irritation. YES some dogs need to have their pads shaved out but not every dog does. It DOES NOT make you any less professional to skim or scissor pads!
Myrna Rogahn
2025-08-06 15:21:15
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When we got it from the breeder, she suggested that we trim the hairs under his paws so he wouldn't slip on the wooden floors. However, the vet suggested not doing that as the hair prevents little rocks and debris to get between his toes and nails. The vet also indicated that we avoid having Nikey on slippery surfaces to prevent his slipping to develop crooked legs. That leaves me with a dilemma, because we have no carpets or rugs at home, and I still don't know if it would be good to trim the hair under his paws.
Kayden Wolff
2025-08-06 14:39:35
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Dogs naturally grow hair between their paw pads as a form of protection. However, for breeds with longer hair, the hair can grow longer than the footpads and drag on the floor. Excess foot fur can trap dirt and snow, matt easily, and make it difficult for dogs to get traction on floor surfaces. It can also hide symptoms of an underlying problem. If your dog has a lot of fur between its paw pads, it may be difficult to see that something is wrong. That is why it is recommended that you trim the extra fur between your dog’s paw pads so that you can quickly recognize if your dog is affected by canine hyperkeratosis. Shorter hair breeds typically will not have much hair between their paw pads, so owners will not likely need to do any trimming. So remember, keep the extra fur between the paw pads trimmed for better visibility of symptoms and increased chances of handling canine hyperkeratosis effectively once diagnosed. Proper grooming, such as keeping the hair between your dog’s paws trimmed, is just one way to keep your dog healthy and safe.
Maiya Bartell
2025-08-06 12:54:11
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: 7
The hair around your dog’s paws and in between their toes is susceptible to accumulating dirt and debris while your dog runs around. When this happens, the hair can begin to clump together and stick to the toes. As your dog walks around on these clumps, they might cause irritation and even wound the skin around their paw. If these areas aren’t cleaned or treated, they could become infected and make it painful for your pup to walk. Additionally, long hair can slip under the paw pads and cause your dog to slip or lose their footing, increasing their risk for injuries. To avoid these problems, the excess hair between and around your dog’s paws should be trimmed back and combed. This is likely easier done by a professional groomer, but your vet may be able to teach you how to do it at home.
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