Cleaning paws during virus season – within healthy limits
I often read that dogs’ paws should be disinfected after walks.
But disinfection is not the same as cleaning.
Disinfection involves chlorine or other chemicals that kill microorganisms and make surfaces temporarily hostile to bacteria and viruses.
This is not the same as cleaning — because healthy skin is home to many beneficial bacteria and microorganisms.
If we destroy them, the skin’s balance is disrupted, which can lead to:
eczema, inflammation, allergic reactions and irritation.
You wouldn’t do this to your own skin — and you shouldn’t do it to your dog’s either.
No matter how “eco-friendly” or “hypoallergenic” a cleaning product claims to be.
In short:
A dog’s body and paws should only be cleaned with dog shampoo, dog soap, wipes or dry shampoo.
So how should you clean your dog?
The same way you would on any normal day after a walk.
Paw cleaning shouldn’t be a trend — it should always be part of your routine. Why?
- You never know what your dog steps in.
Trust me, it’s not any better if they step in infectious spit and then bring it onto your couch or bed. - You take off your shoes when you get home — and wash your hands.
- When dogs lick their paws, they can ingest anything.
Including other dogs’ feces (huge minus points to owners who don’t pick up!), from dogs that may be sick, worm-infested or unvaccinated. - Dogs only sweat between their toes.
If this area isn’t clean, it can become red, inflamed, itchy, painful or even fungal.
So yes — paws always deserve attention.
Here are some ways to keep your dog clean during this time without damaging their skin or overloading it with toxins.
Full cleaning routine
This is our current daily practice.
It means cleaning body and paws after every walk.
Steps:
- I apply My Bulldog Sanitizer (tea tree oil coat cleansing and conditioning foam) into my hands and rub it over their heads, backs, sides and paws.
- Then I wipe them down with My Bulldog Wet Wipes.
Both products contain gentle cleansing agents that remove surface dirt — similar to washing hands with soap.
Paw-only cleaning
You can do it as above — or like this:
Steps:
- We keep a separate paw-washing bowl.
- I fill it with lukewarm water and add a few pumps of My Bulldog Shampoo.
- Using a dedicated dog towel, I gently wipe their paws.
This method is suitable for daily use, as the shampoo contains no drying ingredients.
Lower-body wash
In muddy weather — like during heavy slush or snow — wipes and foam aren’t enough.
When both dogs are covered in sand up to their bellies, a quick rinse is easier.
Steps:
- In these cases, I use our My Bulldog Soap, a herbal dog soap.
It doesn’t dry the skin, contains nourishing oils and beneficial herbs. - I wash only the legs and belly, not the entire body.
- Head and back are cleaned with wipes.
These are our basic routines.
Not only because of the current situation — but because we love cuddling, carrying and snuggling up with our dogs while watching TV.
That said, living downtown, I see very clearly what hides in the bushes at night…
And honestly, I’m not keen on kissing urine off my dogs that they pick up while searching for the perfect “pee spot”.
Basic hygiene is always necessary — and it’s absolutely enough even now.
At least when it comes to our dogs.
Have a healthy day!
Magyari Detti
canine herbalist
