Smartis paw care set is a three-product kit for dog paw pads: a balm, a protective wax and Clean Paws liquid soap. Before a walk, the wax creates a water-repellent barrier against mud, salt, frost and hot pavements. After a walk, the soap gently cleans the pads without drying the skin. The balm with D-panthenol, beeswax, oils and lanolin softens rough skin, helps cracks heal and also suits the nose. Shelf life is 3 years.
What's in the set
| Product | When | Main ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Protective wax | Before a walk | Beeswax, coconut, almond and shea oils, lanolin, D-panthenol |
| Clean Paws liquid soap | After a walk | Mild surfactants, glycerin |
| Paw and nose balm | After washing, at night | Beeswax, almond or grapeseed oil, lanolin, petroleum jelly, D-panthenol |
How to use it
- Before a walk, apply a thin layer of wax to dry pads and between them.
- After the walk, wash the paws with warm water and Clean Paws soap, especially if roads are salted.
- Dry the paws and the hair between the toes thoroughly with a towel.
- Apply balm to the pads and, if needed, a dry nose, and rub in gently.
- Distract your dog for 10–15 minutes so the product absorbs rather than getting licked off.
Pros
- Complete care. Protection, cleaning and repair in one set.
- Protection from de-icers. The wax forms a barrier against salt and frost.
- Summer too. Also helps on hot pavements.
- For paws and nose. The balm suits a dry nose.
- Long shelf life. 3 years.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- Dogs only. The wax and balm contain essential oils, including tea tree, so they aren't suitable for cats.
- Dogs may lick it. Apply thin layers and distract your pet.
- Fragrance. Patch-test on sensitive dogs first.
- Not for deep wounds. Bleeding cracks and cuts should be seen by a vet.
Why paws crack
In winter, pads dry out from frost and de-icing chemicals, and salt eats into the skin and can cause burns. In summer, hot pavements are the problem, and all year round there's mud, glass and stones. Dry, rough skin cracks, and cracks hurt and can become infected. Regular washing and softening of the pads is the best prevention. More in dog paw care in autumn and winter.
Nails and hair between the toes
Long nails stop a dog placing its paw properly, and hair between the pads collects snow and mud and forms ice balls. Trim the hair level with the pads and shorten the nails regularly — see how to trim a dog's and cat's nails and our AnimAll LED nail clipper review. Small and short-haired dogs may also need boots in winter — see dog clothes for autumn and winter.
Who it suits
Dogs walking in cities in winter where roads are salted, dogs with dry, rough pads, and in summer for walks on hot pavements. Other products are in dog care.
Verdict
The Smartis paw set is a convenient kit for complete care: the wax protects before walks, the soap cleans afterwards, and the balm softens and repairs pads and nose. It's made for dogs and, because of the essential oils, isn't suitable for cats.
Signs your dog's paws need help
Your dog licks its paws after walks, limps, refuses to walk on salted pavements, or has cracked, red or flaking pads and red skin between the toes. Check the paws after every winter walk: pads, the spaces between toes and the nails. If a crack bleeds, the paw is swollen or the dog is badly lame, don't rely on balm alone — have a vet rule out a cut, splinter or infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's in the Smartis set?
A paw and nose balm, a protective wax and Clean Paws liquid soap.
When should the wax be applied?
Before a walk, to dry pads.
Can the balm be used on the nose?
Yes, it's for paws and nose.
Can it be used on a cat?
No, because of the essential oils it's made for dogs.
Does the wax protect against de-icers?
Yes, it forms a barrier against salt, frost and mud.
What's the shelf life?
3 years from manufacture.
