Dog Paw : Anatomy and Care

As a dog parent, at some point, you may have taken an imprint of your baby’s paws and framed it as a memory. But have you ever wondered about what the different parts of the paws are called and what are their functions?

In this blog, we’ll take you through the anatomy of a dog’s paws and we’ll cover every intricate and interesting detail. We’ll also touch upon some tips to help you take better care of your furry friend’s paws.

Let’s dive in then!

Anatomy of Dog Paws

Reading about dog paws will surely make you boop your buddy because you'll realize how adorable they are! These are the parts of dog paws:

The Claws (Toenails)

Claws generally provide ground grip and dogs use them for digging and tearing. The toenails look like beaks and just like human nails dog nails are also made from keratin.

Digital Pads

Sitting directly under the claws, digital pads are the individual pads for each limb. They are the leathery parts black and white or pink. The main function of digital pads is to support the dog’s weight and provide force to accelerate while running. They are made of epidermis and contain fatty tissues, allowing dogs to withstand cold, ice, and snow.

The Metacarpal (On Front Paws) and the Metatarsal (On Hind Paws) Pad

These are the heart-shaped pads located just below the four digital pads. You can consider them as the soles or palms of your dog. The ones in the front are called metacarpal and the hind ones are called metatarsal pads. They assist in maintaining balance, absorb shock, and provide comfort while walking. They also protect the claws from damage and aid in stopping during running.

The Carpal Pad

The Carpal pad is located higher on the paws over the dew claw. These small pads mainly function as a break for the dogs, providing greater traction during an abrupt stop. They also help maintain balance on slippery surfaces.

The Dew Claw

Not all dogs have Dew claws; they are like a mystery. This solitary nail typically sits between the Metacarpal and the Carpal pad. It is not much of a use in most dogs but in some cases, they provide a better grip and extra resistance while turning.

Sweat Glands

Did you know dogs sweat through their feet? Well, they have sweat glands in their paw pads which are not visible like the other parts discussed above. Interestingly, the sweat glands are the main reason your dog’s feet smell like corn chips.

Tips to Take Care of Your Dog’s Paws

Here are some tips to take care of your dog’s paws.

• Regularly trim their nails & hair and clean their paws for debris.
• Moisturize with coconut oil or paw balm for cracked, peeling, or dry paws.
• Check your dog’s feet for debris and clean them after they come from outside.
• Use an antibacterial wash or salty warm water if your dog’s paws are blistered.
• Pay attention to the odor of their paws and consult the vet in case you smell an unusual odor.

Final Words

Pawsome! Now you know everything about the little paws of your little friend. Remember to follow the tips discussed in this article and keep your dog’s paws healthy!