We are all accustomed to our dogs having wet noses and smooth paw pads. Our dog has recently developed a dry patch on her nose. Our veterinarian has told us “some dogs just get dry patches” and it is nothing to be concerned about. But we would still like to help her and that is where paw and nose cream for dogs comes in. If your dog is also having a dry nose or even dry, cracked paws, a paw and nose cream may be able to help.
This post will look at paw and nose cream for dogs, common ingredients contained in these products, how to choose the best paw and nose cream for your dog, and some examples of paw and nose cream for dogs available.
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Related: Dog Moisturizer For Dry Skin: Solutions For Itchy Pups, Best Paw Pad Moisturizer For Your Pup, The Best Paw And Nose Balm For Your Dog
What Is Paw And Nose Cream For Dogs?
Paw and nose cream for dogs helps keep your pup’s skin healthy and protected. These products moisturize dry skin and create a barrier against harsh elements.
A paw and nose cream for dogs can also be applied directly to your pup’s nose or paw pads. This is unlike paw and nose balm, which needs to be warmed up on your hands first before it is applied. This can be beneficial for dogs that may not like a balm applied or know what’s coming when you start to warm up the product in your hands and turns away from you (here’s looking at our dog)!
Importance Of Paw And Nose Care
Your dog’s paws and nose need special care. These areas are exposed to rough surfaces, hot pavement, and cold weather. Without care, they can become dry, cracked, or injured.
Paw creams soften tough skin on paw pads. This helps prevent painful cracks and sores. Nose balms keep your dog’s snout moist and comfortable.
Regular use of these products can:
- Prevent injuries from rough terrain.
- Protect against ice and salt in winter.
- Soothe existing irritation.
- Keep skin flexible and healthy.
Common Ingredients In Paw And Nose Cream For Dogs
Paw and nose cream for dogs often contain natural, soothing ingredients. These are safe if your dog licks them off.
Popular ingredients include:
- Coconut oil: Moisturizes and has antibacterial properties.
- Shea butter: Deeply hydrates skin.
- Beeswax: Forms a protective barrier.
- Vitamin E: Helps heal damaged skin.
- Calendula: Reduces inflammation.
Some products also add essential oils for scent and extra benefits. Always check the label to make sure all ingredients are dog-safe.
How Do I Choose The Right Paw And Nose Cream For My Dog?
Choosing the best paw and nose cream for your dog takes some thought. You’ll want to consider your dog’s needs and the cream’s ingredients.
Factors To Consider
Look at your dog’s paw condition. Are they dry, cracked, or irritated? Check the ingredients list for natural, soothing items like coconut oil or shea butter. These help moisturize and protect.
Avoid creams with harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. These can cause more irritation. Pick a non-toxic formula in case your dog licks their paws.
Think about ease of use too. Some creams come in stick form for quick application. Others are in tins or tubes.
For cracked or damaged paws, look for Ingredients like calendula or aloe vera which can soothe and repair skin.
In cold weather, choose a thick, waterproof cream. This guards against ice and salt on sidewalks.
How Do I Apply Paw And Nose Cream On My Dog?
Proper application of paw and nose cream is important for your dog’s comfort.
Get your dog comfortable before applying cream. Choose a quiet spot where you can both relax. Let your dog sniff the cream to get used to it. Give treats and praise to create positive associations.
Gently clean your dog’s paws with a damp cloth. Pat them dry. Check for any cuts, cracks, or foreign objects. Remove any debris stuck between the paw pads.
For nose application, wipe the nose area clean with a soft, damp cloth. Make sure it’s dry before applying cream.
Start with a small amount of cream. Gently massage it into your dog’s paw pads. Work it into the cracks and crevices.
Apply cream to the skin between paw pads too. Don’t forget the area around the nails. Be extra gentle if your dog’s paws are sore.
For the nose, dab a thin layer of cream on and avoid getting it inside the nostrils.
Let the cream absorb for a few minutes. Distract your dog with a toy to prevent licking. Repeat daily or as directed on the product label.
Maintenance And Regular Care
Keeping your dog’s paws and nose healthy requires ongoing care and attention. A consistent routine helps prevent issues and catch problems early.
Check your dog’s paws daily for cuts, cracks, or debris. Gently wipe them with a damp cloth after walks. Trim the fur between paw pads to reduce dirt buildup.
Monitoring For Allergic Reactions
Watch for signs of allergies when using new products. These may include:
- Excessive licking or chewing of paws.
- Redness or swelling.
- Sneezing or coughing.
- Changes in behavior or energy levels.
Test new paw and nose cream for dogs on a small area first. Wait 24 hours to check for reactions. If you notice any issues, stop use and talk to your veterinarian.
Some dogs may be sensitive to certain ingredients. Common allergens include fragrances, preservatives, and some plant-based oils. Choose hypoallergenic options if your dog has sensitive skin.
Paw And Nose Cream For Dogs
Here are a few examples of paw and nose cream for dogs. Product information is according to the manufacturer.
Makondo Pets Paw & Nose Dog Cream
- Nourishes and repairs cracked snouts.
- Restores and nourishes moisture to pads.
- Ingredients include:
- Avocado oil.
- Shea butter.
- Vitamin E.
- Cocoa butter.
- Olive oil.
- Non-toxic.
- Fragrance free.
- Non-greasy formula.
- Cruelty free.
- Made in the USA.
Burt’s Bees For Dogs Nose & Paw Lotion
- Nourishes your dog’s skin.
- Use on dry, cracked paw pads and noses.
- Ingredients include:
- Olive oil.
- Fruit oil.
- Jojoba oil.
- Avocado oil.
- Sunflower oil.
- Shea butter.
- Manuka honey.
- Beeswax.
- Sulfate free.
- Cruelty free.
- pH balanced for dogs.
- Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.
Floof Soothing Cream
- Nourishes and hydrates dry paws and noses.
- Quick absorption.
- Promotes healing.
- Reduces irritation.
- Use on dry, irritated, and cracked paws and noses.
- Scent free.
- Ingredients include:
- Jojoba oil. Moisturizes skin and hydrates.
- Coconut oil. Moisturizes skin and hydrates.
- Almond oil. Moisturizes skin and hydrates.
- Calendula. Calm heal irritated skin.
- Mango butter. Soothes dry, cracked skin.
- Beeswax. Protects and seals in moisture.
- Paraben free.
- Cruelty free.
- pH balanced.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Made in the USA.
Shake Organic Pet Paw Cream
- Heals and protects paws.
- Relieves bacterial, fungal, and parasitic paw infections.
- Helps relieve pododermatitis and footpad hyperkeratosis.
- Prevents snow and ice clumping.
- Ingredients include: (all organic)
- Shea butter.
- Coconut oil.
- Babassu oil.
- Sunflower oil.
- Lavender.
- Peppermint.
- Dandelion.
- Calendula.
- Mild scent with minty and herbal earth notes.
- Cruelty free.
- Non-GMO.
- Gluten free.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Made in the USA.
A paw and nose cream for dogs can help keep our pup’s noses and paws free of dryness and cracks. This is especially helpful in hot, dry weather and also during the winter months.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.