Do You Need Dog Paw Balm or Butter?

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• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

Chances are, if you’ve been a dog parent, you’ve seen dog paw balms advertised as miracle products, mysterious salves that let your pup walk on ice and hot pavement without a problem. They’re meant to offer a barrier between your pup’s paws and the road, repair dry or cracked pads, and act as preventative care to keep pads smooth and strong. Some are even advertised as useful for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies.

So do they really work, or are they a vanity product that doesn’t make a substantial difference in the health of your dog’s feet? Are they safe for dogs who, let’s face it, are going to engage in some level of licking? And if they’re really that great, should we all be using them for everyday preventative care?