All artists I'm sure go through a phase where they have issues with what I call the "block paw" which is where your paws look a little like a square. Some artists prefer that style but I really don't like it so I spent a great deal of time figuring out paws. I now understand them. I hope this tutorial helps other artists.
I really don't think these styles are mine particularly. They are more like my rendition.
Steps:
Paw 1
1. Draw the toes. Add points to the top of the toes for this style.
2. Add the paw pads and claws, if this is a wolf or canine the claws will ALWAYS show as well as the paw pads.
3. Add the length of the toe. Remember this part. It adds the realistic look. Add the legs and ta-da! It's done!
Paw 2
1. This is more realistic because you'll see the ridges on a real wolf paw on the toes. So draw the toes and give them a more rounder look.
2. Add the claws and paw pads as all canines have them showing.
3. Add the length of the toes as they add the more realistic look like I've said before. Add the legs and we're done!
Paw 3
1. Add the toes. In this one the second toe closest to us seems to be attached to the closest toe to us or the outer toe.
2. Add the paw pads but NO claws. Unless the feline is being aggressive don't add the claws. You may add a line though to where the claws would come out.
3. Add the length of the toes and legs and we're done!
Paws 4
1. Add the toes, make sure they are less pointed and have an indent in the middle.
2. Add the paw pads but don't add the claws unless the cat is being aggressive and the are flexed.
3. Add the toe length for realism and leg.
Paws 5
1. Add the first, small, round toe.
2. Add a bigger toe and make sure it looks attached as so to the first toe drawn.
3. Add the third toe for depth and the legs. Wah-la! We're done. C:
Important tip: Always ALWAYS make the paws slanted like so: / It adds to realism drastically.
I also have a tutorial for head-on paws. You can find it here.
This is how I draw paws. Enjoy and I hope this was helpful!