Written By: Zach Miller
"Our four legged wing crushers otherwise known as our gundogs are known for their exceptional hunting skills, especially when it comes to waterfowl. These dogs are bred to retrieve ducks and other waterfowl from the water, making them an essential part of any hunting expedition. However, with all the time spent in the water and on different surfaces, duck dog paw maintenance is crucial to ensure their paws remain healthy and free from any injuries."
Duck dogs are exposed to various elements when they are out in the field, including water, mud, and sharp objects and the occasional broken corn stalk. These elements can cause damage to their paws, leading to infections, cuts, and other injuries. Therefore, it is essential to take proper care of their paws to prevent any harm.
One of the most important things to do is to keep their paws clean and dry. After a hunting trip, it is crucial to clean their paws thoroughly to remove any dirt, mud, or debris that may have accumulated. I’m guilty of leaving my pup “marinate” in the essence of the deep swamp but unfortunately it’s not a smart move for prolonged periods. This can be done by using a damp cloth or a paw cleaning solution. There are many paw cleaning tools of “questionable” build but they are effective. It is also essential to dry their paws thoroughly to prevent any moisture from getting trapped between their toes, which can lead to infections.
Another important aspect of duck dog paw maintenance is trimming their nails regularly. Long nails can cause discomfort and pain to the dog, making it difficult for them to walk or run. It can also cause their paws to splay, leading to injuries. Therefore, it is essential to trim their nails regularly to keep them at a comfortable length.
In addition to trimming their nails, it is also important to check their paw pads for any cuts or injuries. The paw pads are the thick, rubbery part of the paw that provides cushioning and protection. These pads can get cut or injured when the dog steps on sharp objects or rough terrain. Therefore, it is essential to check their paw pads regularly and treat any injuries immediately.
When it comes to the topic of climate, we have a great test that handlers/owners can do to gauge the intensity of the surface your dog is walking on. A 30 second test is what I use, if you place your hand on the walking surface and are able to keep it there for 30 seconds and longer, the surface is acceptable for the dog’s pads. If you cannot keep it there for 30 seconds, it is not acceptable to work our dog on.
One way to prevent injuries to the paw pads is to use protective boots. Now… I already know what you’re thinking, Zach… I am not showing up to a hunt with booties on. Listen…I get it, but boots work. At the same time, I’m not showing up with them either. These boots are designed to protect the dog's paws from sharp objects, rough terrain, and extreme temperatures. What I will do instead is use a protective wax or application to condition my duck dog’s pads. “Mushers” brand is a great application for this exact purpose. It is a. old school trick that not many people use but you won’t catch me dead without!
Finally, it is essential to provide proper nutrition to the dog to ensure their paws remain healthy. A balanced diet that includes essential vitamins and minerals can help strengthen their paw pads and prevent injuries. It is also important to provide plenty of water to keep them hydrated, especially during hunting trips when they are exposed to water for extended periods.
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