Many pet parents want to get a dog paw print. It can be for anything such as holiday cards, art projects, or Christmas ornaments. You can also save a dog paw print or cast impression as a memorial for after your pooch passes (read tips on coping with the death of a beloved pet). But whatever the reason for wanting a dog paw print, here are some tips on getting it right.
It's a good idea to start by helping your dog relax. A treat works well, especially if your dog doesn’t like anyone going near the paws. If your dog just doesn’t cooperate when you try to cut their nails, you know exactly what I’m talking about. These tips on cutting a dog’s nails might help.
If a treat doesn’t work, don’t force your dog to give you a paw print. Put it on the backburner and try again getting a dog paw print another day.
It might be worth investing in a dog paw print kit. They’re easily available on Amazon and cost anywhere from $5 to $25. The basic ones have an ink pad and imprint cards. The more expensive ones feature keepsake photo frames or materials for a craft project, such as to make a Christmas ornament. We love the Better World Pets Paw Print kit that comes with a 4x6 picture frame and memorial clay imprint kit.
If you enjoy arts and crafts, a dog paw print can be an enjoyable DIY project. It can be a great time for your pooch and you to bond. Make sure you clean your dog’s paw before you take a paw print. A wet wipe or moist towel usually does the trick. Then, simply use child-safe paints to get a dog paw print. Washable paints work best – they are nontoxic and come off easily. You may need to take more than one paw print before you get the perfect one.
Other options include using an ink pad (warning: this can be messy!). Again, check for non-toxic, child-safe ink pads. Also, remember that some inks fade over time. You don’t want to go back to your dog paw print years later and find it is barely visible. So, you may want to look for archival inks that are less likely to fade.
You can also get a nice impression of your dog’s paw in dough. Mix some flour with an equal amount of salt and knead it with water to make a dough. Flatten the dough into the size and shape you desire. Then place your dog’s paw into the dough and press it down firmly. Bake your DIY dog paw imprint in the oven at around 200F until it hardens.
Did you enjoy reading these tips on getting a dog paw print? Stay tuned to the Puppy Hero blog for more interesting ideas.
10 February, 2023