Monsoon paw care: preventing infections between the toes
Wet toes plus mud equals itchy, smelly paws. A quick after-walk routine that keeps infections away all monsoon.
In this guide
During the monsoon, your dog's paws spend a lot of time wet. Puddles, mud and wet floors mean the skin between the toes rarely dries properly, which is perfect for bacteria and yeast. Here's how to keep paws healthy through the rains.
Watch for these signs
- Red or pink skin between the toes
- A sour, yeasty or "corn chip" smell
- Constant licking or chewing of the paws
- Brown staining of the fur from licking
- Swelling, discharge or limping
If you see redness with discharge, swelling or limping, see your vet. Paw infections often need proper treatment.
The after-walk routine
Do this every time your dog comes in from outside. It takes under two minutes.
- Rinse or wipe. Use a damp cloth or a small bowl of clean water to remove mud and grit. A spritz of Waterless Dry Bath Spray on the cloth helps lift dirt.
- Spread the toes and wipe between them.
- Dry thoroughly. This is the most important step. Use a dry towel and get between every toe and pad.
- Check for cuts, thorns, stones and redness.
Trim the paw fur
Long fur between the pads holds water and mud like a sponge. Keep it trimmed level with the pads using blunt-ended scissors, or ask your groomer. Keep the nails short too; see how to trim your dog's nails.
Protect the pads
Constant wet-then-dry cycles can leave pads rough and cracked. Once paws are fully dry, rub a little Cracked Paw Repair Balm into the pads at bedtime. Don't apply balm to wet paws or between infected toes.
Smarter monsoon walks
- Avoid stagnant water and deep puddles. They can carry bacteria and parasites.
- Walk on paved paths rather than muddy fields after heavy rain.
- Dog boots can help if your dog accepts them; introduce them slowly.
- Wash and dry paw towels daily.
Inside the house
- Keep a towel and mat at the door.
- Dry wet floors promptly.
- Wash pet bedding often and dry it fully.
For a full-body monsoon routine, read monsoon grooming for dogs.
Questions pet parents ask
Why do my dog's paws smell in the rainy season? +
Damp skin between the toes lets bacteria and yeast grow, which causes a sour or yeasty smell. Drying the paws thoroughly after walks helps a lot.
How do I know if my dog has a paw infection? +
Redness, swelling, discharge, a strong smell, constant licking or limping are common signs. See your vet if you notice them.
Should I use paw balm in the monsoon? +
Yes, on clean, completely dry pads, ideally at bedtime. Don't apply it to wet paws or infected skin.
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This guide is general information for pet parents, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, injured or you're unsure, please talk to your vet.
