• 🐶 Why do dog paws smell so good?

• 🥰 5 simple ways to keep your pup’s paws healthy

• 🐾 Hit the trails with your furry friend

• 🦴 DOTD - Meet Nova and Hook

• ❤️ A special word from our pups

True or False?

Spiked collars were used in ancient Greece to protect dogs’ throats from wolf attacks.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Ah, the sweet smell of your dog’s paws – is there anything quite like it? Many dog parents describe it as a Frito, corn chip, or popcorn scent — I grew up calling it popcorn paws. Whatever you call it, have you ever wondered why those adorable paws smell the way they do? Let’s find out!

It turns out that their signature paw scent comes from a combination of natural bacteria and yeast—specifically Pseudomonas and Proteus—living on your dog’s skin. Just like us, our pups have a normal flora of bacteria and yeast on their skin. These microbes thrive in the warm, moist crevices between your dog’s toes, creating that corn chip or popcorn aroma. It’s totally normal (as long as the smell isn’t overpowering).

For those who love the smell (and some don’t—though I’m not sure who the real weirdo is here), it’s more than just a scent. It’s connected to them, and we love the dog behind that smell! When we take a whiff of those delicious paws, it’s tied to feelings of comfort and the deep love we have for them. Smell is linked to memory and emotion because scents go straight to the limbic system!

Pretty interesting, right? Whatever the reason, we can all agree that those paws are irresistible. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to take a whiff of my pup’s paws—you should, too!

Our dog’s paws are more than just adorable – they’re the best little (or big) tools that take them wherever they need to go. Taking care of your doggo’s paws is important – especially as the colder months approach. Imagine if we walked barefoot everywhere, in all types of weather and terrains.

So, let’s give our pup’s paws the treatment they deserve! Here are a few simple ways you can keep your pup’s paws healthy, even on icy sidewalks, snow, and road salt.

1. Moisturize to Prevent Cracks

We all know how uncomfortable cracked heels and skin can be – it’s no fun! Cracked paw pads can be just as painful for your pup and, if deep enough, can even lead to infections. To prevent this, use a dog-safe moisturizer to keep their paws soft and hydrated. Be sure to avoid human lotions, as they can actually make your dog’s paws too soft and slippery, making it harder for them to walk on familiar terrain.

2. Trim Those Nails

Long nails can make walking uncomfortable for your dog, especially on icy or hard surfaces. Regular trims every two weeks or so should do the trick, though it depends on your dog's activity level. A good rule of thumb: if you're hearing their nails click on the floor, it's time for a trim!

3. Post-Walk Paw Clean-Up

After a walk in the snow or on salty roads, wipe down your pup’s paws. Road salt can dry out and irritate their paw pads, and it can be toxic if your dog licks it off.

4. Regular Paw Inspections

Make it a habit to check your dog’s paws every so often. Look for any cracks, redness, or bits of debris stuck between their toes. This is a great way to catch issues early before they become bigger problems. My dog once got a foxtail stuck in his paw, and I didn’t notice until his poor paw swelled up like a balloon!

5. Booties or Wax

As winter settles in, you might want to think about some extra protection for your pup's paws, especially if you'll be walking on icy or salted roads. Booties are a great option—while not every dog loves them, they definitely help keep paws warm and safe from the elements. If booties aren’t your dog’s thing, no worries! Paw wax works wonders, too.

Do you do anything special to take care of your dog’s paws? We’d love to hear your tips!

Meaning “to fly” in Maori, Hoka was founded in 2009 so that anyone spending long hours on their feet could get the ultimate experience with optimum cushioning and stability. Less than 15 years after its founding, Hoka is bringing in revenues topping a billion dollars a year, so it’s clear that people are loving this brand. But with quality comes high prices, and Hoka is no doubt in the high end price-wise. Thanks to Brad's Deals, we found the best prices on Hoka.

Here are the top 8 stores where you can find great deals on Hoka.

This is Nova (left) and her best bud, Hook (right)! Here they are sitting in a "race car" at Cottonwood Mall in Albuquerque, NM. These two met in puppy class and have been best friends ever since. Both Nova and Hook are 3 years old—Nova is a Border Collie/St. Bernard mix, and Hook is a Goldendoodle. I want a friendship like theirs! Thanks for sharing this adorable pair with us.

Daily Dig is inspired and brought to you by our wonderful dogs. Our dogs, and all the other pups out there, make the world a happier, brighter place. ❤️

With lots of love,

Stitcher, Minnie, & Finnegan 🐾

🦴 A Little Treat

🤔 True or False: True, spiked collars were used in ancient Greece to protect their dogs from wolf attacks.

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