FAQ: Grooming for dogs

Paw balm or wax moisturises and softens the skin of the pads, helps prevent cracks and forms a protective layer against salt, cold or hot surfaces. It is especially useful in winter and for active dogs. Apply a thin layer and do not let the dog lick it off straight away.

Before a walk apply paw wax or balm, trim the hair between the pads so it does not collect snow and salt balls, and after you get home wash the paws in lukewarm water and dry them. Dog boots can help sensitive paws. Do not let the dog lick the salt.

On hot days walk early in the morning or in the evening and choose grass and shade. A simple test: press your hand on the asphalt — if you cannot hold it there for a few seconds, it is too hot for the dog. Protective wax gives some protection but does not fully prevent burns.

Regular paw balm helps soften dry, rough pads. If the cracks are deep or bleeding, the dog limps or licks its paws, or you see redness or pus, see a vet — there may be an infection or another cause.

Better not. Dogs lick their paws, and human creams may contain fragrances, essential oils or other substances that can upset the stomach if swallowed. Dog paw balms are designed so that the small amount licked off is harmless.

Spread the toes and wipe between them with a damp wipe or cloth, pull out any stuck pebbles, thorns or grass seeds, then dry everything thoroughly. Redness, swelling or a strong smell between the toes may mean inflammation — see a vet then.

The typical smell comes from bacteria and yeasts that naturally live on the skin, and from sweat released through the pads. A mild smell is normal. If it is very strong, the dog licks its paws, or you see redness or brown residue between the toes, talk to a vet.

After walks in fields or woods check the coat, especially the paws, ears, armpits and tail. Carefully tease burrs out with your fingers or a comb after spraying detangler. Grass awns can work into the skin, ear or nose — if the dog scratches, shakes its head or sneezes, see a vet.

Healthy dog ears do not need frequent cleaning — it is enough to check them regularly and wipe the outer part if dirty. Dogs with floppy ears, hairy ear canals or those that swim often need cleaning more often. Cleaning too often can also cause irritation.

Put in a dog ear cleaner as the label directs, massage the base of the ear for a few seconds, let the dog shake its head and wipe the outer part with cotton wool or gauze. Do not push anything deep into the ear canal. Clean only as far as your finger reaches.

Choose an ear-cleaning solution made for dogs, usually mild and non-irritating, without alcohol if the ears are sensitive. Some cleaners also dry the ears after swimming. If the ear is red, painful or has discharge, see a vet first, as a different product may be needed.

Cleaning the ear canal with cotton buds is not recommended: a bud can push dirt deeper or injure the ear, especially if the dog suddenly moves. They can be used carefully only on the outer folds of the ear flap. A liquid cleaner is meant for the canal.

No. Hydrogen peroxide and alcohol can irritate and dry the delicate skin of the ear, and sting badly if the ear is damaged. Use only an ear cleaner made for dogs, and if you suspect inflammation, see a vet.

See a vet if the dog often shakes its head, scratches an ear or holds it tilted, or the ear is red, swollen or smells bad, has dark or pus-like discharge, or the dog shows pain. In that case do not clean it yourself until the cause has been found.

It used to be routine for many breeds, but now plucking is often advised only when the hair causes problems or the ears are prone to inflammation, because plucking can irritate the skin. It differs from dog to dog — ask a vet or an experienced groomer.

Ear powder is used to grip the hair in the ears when it needs plucking, and it absorbs a little moisture. It is not a cleaner and does not treat inflammation. Do not pour the powder deep into the ear canal, and do not use it if the ear is irritated.

Floppy ears, like those of spaniels or beagles, are poorly ventilated, so moisture and warmth build up inside more easily and favour microbes. It is worth checking these dogs' ears more often and drying them after baths or swimming. Clean only with a dog ear cleaner.

After a swim let the dog shake its head and gently dry the ear flap and opening with a towel or cotton wool. For dogs that swim often, some owners use a drying ear cleaner made for dogs. Do not push anything into the canal.

They are moist wipes with a mild cleaning solution for the outer ear and the folds of the ear flap. They are handy when travelling or for routine care but do not clean the ear canal. Use a separate wipe for each ear.

Shaking the head after the cleaner goes in is normal — it is how the dog gets rid of the liquid and loosened dirt. But if the dog keeps shaking its head later, scratches or the ear turns red, the ear may be irritated or inflamed, so see a vet.