What Are “Dorito Paws” in Dogs and How to Address Them

What are Doritos Paws?

Dogs are known for their adorable and sometimes peculiar behaviors, their world is completely different than ours, however there is something similar when it comes to how their paws smell. Have you heard of “Dorito paws”. If you’re a dog owner, you may have noticed a distinctive smell coming from your furry friend’s paws, and this smell is often compared to the aroma of Dorito chips.

But what causes this smell? And is it something to be concerned about? Let’s take a closer look.

The odour coming from your dog’s paws is caused by the bacteria Proteus or Pseudomonas. These bacteria are commonly found on the skin and can cause a range of infections, including UTI’s and skin infections. When these bacteria come into contact with your dog’s sweat or natural oils, they tend to produce what is often described as “Frito feet” or “Dorito paws” due to its similarity of the smells.

Cleaning your Pets Paws

First of all, you should have some sort of feet care routine for your dog after walks. If you live in a sunny place, perhaps apply soothing creams to cool down. In colder places, add moisturizing cream – make sure its approved for Pet usage. It’s also important to regularly clean your dog’s paws and keep them dry to prevent the growth of bacteria. You can use a damp cloth to wipe your dog’s paws after walks or playtime, and make sure to dry them thoroughly with a towel.

Povidone Iodine

While the smell itself may not be harmful, it’s important to keep your dog’s paws clean and free of bacteria to prevent infections. An effective way to do this is by using an antiseptic solution, such as Povidone Iodine.

Povidone Iodine is a commonly used antiseptic solution that can help kill bacteria and prevent infections. It works by releasing iodine, which destroys the cell walls of bacteria and viruses, preventing them from replicating and causing infection.

You can find this at any store like Walmart or Amazon, and is available in different concentrations, with 7.5% and 10% being the most common. The higher concentration may be more effective at killing bacteria, but it’s important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or veterinarian.

The cost of a 16flOZ bottle of 7.5% Povidone Iodine is around $12, while a 10% solution may cost around $15. While this may seem like a small expense, the benefits of using an antiseptic solution to prevent infections and keep your dog healthy are invaluable.

How to apply Povidone Iodine to dog paws

1. First, prepare a solution of povidone iodine and warm water in a clean bowl. You can mix one tablespoon of povidone iodine with a gallon of water to create the solution.
2. Next, carefully lift your dog’s paw and dip it into the solution. Make sure the paw is completely submerged for at least 30 seconds.
3. Gently rub the paw with a clean cloth or gauze to remove any dirt or debris.
4. Repeat the process with the other paws.
5. After cleaning all the paws, dry them thoroughly with a clean towel.

Here are some cautionary measures to keep in mind:

1. Povidone iodine should not be used on deep wounds or punctures. If your dog has a severe injury, seek veterinary care immediately.
2. Povidone iodine can stain clothing, carpet, and other surfaces. Be sure to apply it in an area that is easy to clean, and wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.
3. Do not allow your dog to ingest povidone iodine solution. If your dog accidentally ingests it, seek veterinary care immediately.
4. If your dog’s paw shows any signs of irritation or allergic reaction after applying povidone iodine, stop using it and consult a veterinarian.

In conclusion, while “Dorito paws” may be a common occurrence in dogs, it’s important to prioritize general pre-emptive paw cleaning to prevent bacterial infections and keep your furry friend healthy. Regularly wiping your dog’s paws with a damp cloth and thoroughly drying them can help prevent the growth of bacteria. If the smell of “Dorito paws” persists, using an antiseptic solution such as Povidone Iodine can be an effective way to kill bacteria and prevent infections. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your dog’s paws clean and healthy, and ensure that they stay happy and odor-free.