Digital and metacarpal pads: shock absorbers and protect the bones and joints Carpal pads work like brakes and help the dog navigate slippery or steep slopes. Pads have a thick layer of fatty tissue that insulates the inner foot tissues from extreme temperatures, as it doesn’t conduct cold as quickly. Avoiding blood vessels when trimming toenails (may be difficult in dark nails) Dewclaw: rudimentary equivalents of human thumbs Should be trimmed to prevent snagging and to keep them from curling around and growing into the foot (removed in very young puppies)