DIY Natural Dog Paw Wax Recipe

Canadian weather is so unique, spontaneous and varietal! We are truly blessed to experience so many beautiful seasons and all that comes in between. AND we all know those pesky transitional periods when we encounter winter, spring, fall and summer all together! Luckily our canine besties love it just as much as we do…

In fact they are usually the ones that get us out of our comfort zones for some fresh air and a brisk walk. And for that we are thankful for the extra motivation :) But sometimes extreme weather can pose a risk to their tender paws with frost bite, dryness, cracking and even blisters from heat…

With this in mind I did some homework on how to protect their precious paws from both extreme cold and heat while walking. While there are dog booties out there some pups just refuse to wear them!

And so I found and tweaked an easy DIY natural dog paw wax recipe that I’m happy to share with you! The wax is specially formulated to create a nourishing barrier to protect soft and delicate paw pads against the elements, such as heat, cold, sand, salt, and snow. Containing only a few basic ingredients and essential oils it’s easy to make at home in your own kitchen :)

Here’s the equipment you’ll need:

Measuring spoons and butter knife (to measure/level exact tablespoons)
Double boiler or small pot and stainless steel bowl
Stainless steel whisk
Small spatula
Cutting board (preferably wood)
Container for paw wax (either deodorant stick or small tin)

And the ingredients you’ll require:
Makes approximately 75 grams or 2.5 oz

2 tbsp organic extra virgin olive oil (may also use sunflower,
2 tbsp organic virgin coconut oil (solid)
1 tbsp organic unrefined shea butter
1 tbsp organic beeswax pastilles
3 drops geranium essential oil

Side Note: I personally chose to use only organic products and pure therapeutic grade essential oils that are safe for the whole family. The ingredients you choose are to your discretion and availability. This recipe is intended for dogs (over 12 weeks old) but can be modified for cats by quartering the quantity of essential oil used.

Now here’s the method:

1. Over low heat bring water in pot (or double boiler) just to a rolling boil.
2. Combine and melt the olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter and beeswax together. Stir well with whisk.
3. Once melted entirely remove top bowl from pot and place on cutting board to slightly cool (approx. 15-30 seconds) *Timing is important here as if you’re using a plastic container you could risk melting the container if the mixture is too hot. Personally I know the mixture is cooled enough if the stainless steel bowl isn’t too hot to touch with my bare fingers.
4. Add the drops of geranium oil to the mixture and whisk again quickly before pouring the entire batch your container.
5. Let your mix cool on the counter until semi-solid. Cap/cover and move to refrigerator until fully solid.

That’s it! After prep you’re done in as little as 10 minutes :) Just remember to keep your paw wax away from heat to prevent melting and use within 1-2 years.

Finally some tips on use and application:

Before you mention the “W-A-L-K” word apply a thin coat/swipe of was to your dog’s paw pads (preferably while laying down and distracted with a treat). Massage in and let dry for 30 seconds to create a protective barrier. Use as needed depending upon the level of outside exposure. Check for any residue and wipe paws clean upon return as per your regular routine :)

If you’d rather purchase the finished product for your dog you can buy it here from the Royal Tails Boutique online store. All essential oils used in my products are sourced from Young Living. Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing oils for yourself or if you have any questions on the use of essential oils for pets. I’d be happy to answer any of your questions!