Best Treatments for Burned Dog Paws and Preventing Further Damage

Imagine your dog happily running around outside, but after a short walk on a hot day, they begin limping or favoring one paw. Burned dog paws are a common yet painful issue for many dogs, especially during the warmer months when surfaces like asphalt, hot pavement, and sand can reach dangerous temperatures. What seems like a minor issue can escalate into a severe injury that requires immediate care. Knowing how to treat burned dog paws and prevent further damage is essential for every dog owner. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of paw burns, how to recognize symptoms, step-by-step treatment for different types of burns, and tips to keep your dog’s paws safe from harm.

What are Burned Dog Paws?

A dog’s burned paws happen when a dog’s paw pads are exposed to hot surfaces like pavement, asphalt, or sand. These burns can range from mild redness to severe blistering and necrosis. Symptoms include limping, swelling, or excessive licking. Quick treatment, including cooling the area and preventing further exposure, is crucial to avoid infection and promote healing.

What Causes Paw Burns for Dogs?

Paw burns can occur in various ways, all of which can cause significant discomfort and damage to your dog’s paws. Let’s explore the main causes:

• Physical burns from hot surfaces like pavement, asphalt, or sand are the most common cause. These surfaces can become extremely hot, especially during peak daytime temperatures, leading to burns on the paw pads.
  
• Friction burns occur when your dog’s paws rub against rough surfaces or move excessively on abrasive areas like concrete or gravel. This kind of burn is less common but can be just as painful.
  
• Chemical burns from harmful substances like antifreeze, ice melts, or cleaning chemicals can also cause burns. These are often more dangerous because they can lead to deeper tissue damage and infections if not cleaned promptly.

Understanding these causes helps in both preventing paw burns and treating them effectively when they do occur.

How Hot is Too Hot for Dog Paws?

When it comes to hot surfaces, how can you tell when it’s too dangerous for your dog to walk on? Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Pavement temperature: On hot summer days, asphalt or concrete surfaces can reach temperatures over 140°F (60°C), which is enough to cause burns within minutes.
  
• First-degree burns: These are mild burns affecting only the surface layer of the paw pads. Symptoms include redness, slight swelling, and discomfort.
  
• Second-degree burns: These are more severe, involving blistering or deeper tissue damage. The skin may turn white, and the dog may experience significant pain.

To prevent these injuries, always test the pavement before walking your dog. Walking during cooler times, such as early morning or late evening, helps reduce the risk of burns.

Signs When Your Dog’s Feet Are Burned

Recognizing paw burns early is crucial for effective treatment. Here are the key symptoms of burned dog paws to watch for:

• Redness or swelling around the paws, often accompanied by blisters or peeling skin.
  
• Necrosis (dead tissue) may occur in severe cases, which can turn the paw pads black or dark in color.
  
• Pain is a strong indicator of burns, and your dog may limp, favor one paw, or show irritability when the injured paw is touched.
  
• Infection signs, including pus, redness, or a foul odor, may develop if the burn is not properly treated.
  
• Excessive licking or chewing at the affected paw, as your dog may attempt to alleviate pain or discomfort.

After walks or exposure to hot surfaces, it’s important to check your dog’s paws regularly to ensure that no damage has occurred.

How to Tell if Burnt Dog Paws Are Mild or Severe

Understanding the severity of the burn helps determine the proper treatment:

• First-degree burns are the mildest form, affecting only the outer layer of the paw pad. They cause redness, swelling, and discomfort but usually don’t require medical intervention. Treatment at home is usually sufficient, and these burns should heal within a few days.
  
• Second-degree burns involve deeper layers of the skin, leading to blisters or open wounds. These burns require immediate veterinary care to prevent infection and promote faster healing.
  
• Third-degree burns, which are rare, cause severe tissue damage, including necrosis. These types of burns require urgent medical care and can take weeks to heal, often needing surgical intervention.

Knowing whether the burn is mild or severe is critical to determining if your dog needs emergency care or can be treated at home. You can also check this guide on When to Take Your Dog to an Emergency Vet for Sudden Injury.

Treatments for Dog’s Burned Paws

Treatment for burned dog paws depends on the severity of the burn. Here’s how you can provide the appropriate care:

First Aid for Mildly Burnt Paw Pads in Dogs

1. Submerge the Affected Paw in Cold Water:
   Immediately cool the burn by submerging the paw in cold water for 5 to 10 minutes to reduce tissue damage and relieve pain.
   
2. Clean the Paw Gently:
   Use mild soap to clean the wound. Avoid strong chemicals that may irritate the burn. Cleanliness is essential to avoid infection.
   
3. Apply Paw Balm:
   If prescribed, apply a soothing paw balm to moisturize and protect the area. Choose a vet-approved balm for healing.
   
4. Bandage if Needed:
   Lightly bandage the paw with sterile gauze to protect the burn. Avoid wrapping too tightly, and use a cone if your dog tries to lick the area.
   
5. Monitor for Healing:
   Regularly check the paw for signs of infection or worsening damage. If the burn doesn’t improve in a few days, contact your vet for further guidance.

Treating Severely Burnt Dog Paws

1. Flush the Severe Burn:
   Immediately flush the burn with saline water or regular water to remove any dirt or debris. This helps minimize tissue damage.
   
2. Seek Urgent Care:
   For severe burns, bring your dog to an emergency vet care clinic right away. Severe burns may require professional treatment, including pain relief, antibiotics, and wound care.
   
3. Post-Care at Home:
   Follow your vet’s instructions for monitoring the wound at home. Expect the healing process to take longer for severe burns, and additional treatments like bandage changes and pain medications may be required.

Preventing Paw Burns in Dogs

Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how to protect your dog’s paws from burn injuries:

• Leash training helps control your dog’s movements and avoid friction burns from sudden movements.
  
• Dog boots offer added protection against hot pavement and rough surfaces, especially during the summer months.
  
• Paw balm can create a protective barrier to shield paw pads from extreme heat, cold, or rough surfaces.
  
• Walk during cooler times like early morning or late evening to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Taking these precautions can prevent future paw injuries and ensure your dog’s comfort.

Final Thoughts on Burnt Paws in Dogs

Treating burned dog paws requires quick action and consistent care to prevent further damage and promote healing. Whether the burn is mild or severe, understanding the symptoms and seeking prompt veterinary care when necessary is essential for your dog’s recovery. 

At North MS Pet Emergency, we implement preventative measures like paw protection and careful walking schedules, you can reduce the risk of paw burns and ensure your dog’s paws stay safe in all seasons.

If your dog suffers from a severe burn, contact us immediately for professional care. Early intervention can prevent complications, speed up healing, and save your dog’s health.

FAQs

1. How long do burnt dog paws take to heal?

The healing time for burned dog paws varies depending on the severity of the burn. Mild burns may heal within 1–2 weeks, while severe burns can take several weeks to months. Regular monitoring and care are essential for proper healing.

2. How to treat burned dog paws at home?

To treat burned dog paws at home, first, cool the affected area with cold water. Clean the burn gently, apply paw balm or a vet-approved ointment, and bandage to prevent licking. Always monitor for signs of infection and seek veterinary help if needed.

3. What does a burn on a dog’s paw look like?

A burned dog paw often appears red, swollen, and may have blisters. The skin may become darkened or blackened in severe cases. Your dog may also show signs of pain such as limping or excessive licking.

4. What can I put on my dog’s blistered paws?

For blistered paws, gently clean the area with saline or warm water. Apply a vet-approved ointment or paw balm to soothe the burn. Be sure to bandage the paw to protect it and prevent licking.

5. Burned dog paws treatment ointment

A paw balm or ointment formulated for burned dog paws will moisturize the skin and promote healing. Look for products containing antiseptic properties, aloe vera, or vitamin E to reduce pain, swelling, and prevent infection. Always consult your vet before use.