Yes, dogs’ paws can get cold in the snow, especially with longer exposure or very low temperatures. Their paws are adapted to the cold, but they are not immune to discomfort or frostbite in extreme conditions.
How dog paws handle cold
Dogs have paw pads with a lot of fatty tissue that resists freezing better than other tissues, which helps insulate against cold ground and snow. They also have a special blood vessel arrangement in their paws (a counter‑current heat exchange) that helps keep paw temperature more stable by warming blood returning from the feet.
When paws really do get cold
Despite these adaptations, dog paws still cool down when walking on snow or ice, and prolonged exposure can cause pain, dryness, cracking, and, in severe cases, frostbite. Small breeds, thin‑coated dogs, very young or old dogs, and dogs not used to cold weather tend to be more sensitive and may lift their feet, limp, or refuse to walk when paws are too cold.
How to protect paws in snow
Common ways to protect paws include using dog booties, or applying paw wax/balm before walks to create a barrier against snow, ice, and salt. It also helps to keep winter walks shorter in very cold weather, avoid heavily salted areas when possible, and gently rinse and dry paws after walks to remove ice and chemicals.