Winter Paw Care 101: Protecting Your Dog from Montreal’s Salt and Snow

Written by Charlotte Smith | 5-minute read

I don’t know about you but when winter hits Montreal, I know that I bundle up like a crazy woman — seven layers of socks, two pairs of pants and those thermal heating gel packs that I hide in my coat. But what about our dogs? They don’t have the endless options like we do, and they have to face the icy sidewalks, salty streets, and freezing climates with no say in the matter. ❄️🐾

If you’ve noticed your dog limping, licking their paws after a walk, or refusing to step outside, you’re not alone. Cold weather and road salt can quickly turn simple walks into uncomfortable (and sometimes painful) experiences. I also wouldn’t want to be walking barefoot on that coarse salt while the snow blows in my face, especially when I know there is a nice and toasty warm bed waiting for me at home!

Here’s everything you need to know to keep your pup’s paws safe, healthy, and happy this winter — from expert dog walkers who has spent seasons in the snow, with her feet on the ground.

🧊 1. Understand Why Winter Is Tough on Paws

Montreal winters mean a mix of ice, snow, and de-icing road salt, which can dry out, crack, and irritate your dog’s paw pads.

Even short walks can expose them to harsh chemicals used to melt snow. Without protection, this salt can lead to burns or infections — especially for dogs with sensitive skin.

So here is what is actually in this snow melting salt;

• Sodium chloride (NaCl, “rock salt”)
• Calcium chloride (CaCl₂)
• Magnesium chloride (MgCl₂)
• Potassium chloride (KCl)

These products lower the freezing point of water but can irritate  the thick, fatty, keratinized, paw skin and cause GI signs if licked; large exposures risk salt toxicity (vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, lethargy—call a vet/poison line)

There are some “pet-friendlier” options but even then they aren’t risk-free – just a lower risk and weaker against the snow. So municipalities won’t really make the switch. 

👉  Hot Tip: After every walk, wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth or paw wipe to remove any salt and slush residue.

🧴 2. Barrier First: Paw Balms or Wax Before and After Walks

If boots are a battle, a paw balm/wax creates a temporary barrier that helps repel moisture, salt, and ice-balls between toes. While it won’t protect those toes beans as well as a nice pair of puppy boots, it does wonders to keep those paws moisturized and healthy and we even recommend applying on a regular basis.  Apply a layer before heading out; after the walk, rinse, dry, then re-apply to moisturize. 

Choose unscented, pet-safe formulas; avoid strong menthol/camphor fragrances that may encourage licking or irritate skin. But if you want to get rid of that ever-so popular Frito or Dorito Dust paw smell, then you can’t go wrong with natural lavender scented balms like the one from Shop Danka. Look for products labeled “pet-safe”, “non-toxic,” and ideally Canadian-made (many local options are formulated for harsh winters).

🧤 3. Try Dog Boots (Even if They Hate Them at First!)

We know — most dogs do the boot dance. Heck, we handle it more times per day than you do and the only real cure is to force them to wear the boots. But once they get used to it, boots can be a lifesaver for paw health. 

They protect against salt, ice, and sharp objects hiding under snow and if you have ever made the mistake of walking barefoot in winter, then you know surprises lay under every snow bank. 

Start by letting your pup wear them inside for short periods ( WITH PLENTY OF REWARDS! The good kind, not the cheap kind. Think those high value puppy pepperoni sticks or some nitrate-free, low sodium turkey), then gradually move outdoors.

Best boots for Montreal winters:

• Waterproof soles
• Velcro straps (stay snug)
• Reflective details for visibility

If a dog simply won’t tolerate boots, double down on balm + quick post-walk rinses.

🧽 4. Keep Nails and Fur Trimmed

Does your dog rock the cutest little boots with the fur, is the whole town looking at her? Well unfortunately, it might be time for a trim. As cute as those little furry paws may be. 

Trimming your dog’s paw fur helps prevent ice buildup between toes, while shorter nails improve traction on slippery sidewalks.After each outing, wipe or rinse paws (warm water), then dry between toes to reduce irritation and secondary infections. 

Regular grooming through winter also keeps paws easier to clean after snowy walks. So please make sure to book with your trusted groomer, and if you don’t have one – let us refer you to some of the best in the business!

🧡 5. Know When It’s Too Cold to Walk

Have you ever walked outside, felt the air on the face, realized you couldn’t see past your hand and just… said no? We ESPECIALLY IN MONTREAL. Our dogs are the same, even the toughest pups have their limits. 

When the weather is below -15°C, or it is a wind-exposed days make sure to shorten those walks. Instead, replace it with longer strolls for milder days and try to go out when the sun is high in the sky! Don’t forget to use mental enrichment indoors to keep your pups brain stimulated. Professional walkers like oursleves can help keep routines safe and consistent when weather fluctuates because we will often switch to indoor enrichment or shorten walks. 

If your dog struggles in the cold, consider booking a professional dog walker who knows how to keep them active, safe, and warm through the season.