Dog paws are vulnerable to burns from hot pavement, ice melt chemicals, and cuts from ice and rough terrain, requiring protective measures and regular care in extreme weather conditions.
Paw injuries from extreme conditions cause acute pain that is often missed because dogs continue walking despite discomfort. Hot pavement burns can cause blisters and damage to paw pads within a minute of contact - the seven-second test (hold your hand on the pavement for seven seconds; if too hot, it's too hot for your dog's paws) is a simple welfare check. Ice melt chemicals cause chemical burns and intense discomfort between the toes. Regular paw care including inspection, washing after winter walks, and use of protective products prevents welfare harms from extreme conditions.