Dogs cracked paws?

QUESTION:

How can I heal my dog's cracked paw pads?

ANSWER:

The first thing to do if you notice cracked or dry paw pads is to see your veterinarian. Certain diseases can cause cracking or inflammation, and your vet may want to do some blood testing, make slides from the pads, or schedule a biopsy. If the pads seem normal, you may need to avoid rough surfaces for a while. Gentle, animal-safe moisturizers are another option, but consult your vet before using any products on your pup's feet. Remember to use a small amount and rub it in well, as most likely your dog will want to lick it off.

When coming in from winter walks, gently clean your dog's paws to remove any salt that may irritate the pads. In summer, try to avoid hot surfaces, such as asphalt. You can put booties on your dog when he's walking on hot, rough, or salty surfaces, but don't expect him to like his footwear right away. Use lots of treats and positive reinforcement and let him get used to the booties inside the house before having him appear in public with them! It may take some time, but eventually he should learn to love them--or at least not mind them.

Liane O'Hora is a veterinarian currently practicing in Northern NY. She is actively involved with Spay It Forward and Misty Mountains Adventures.

Read more about Liane O'Hora in the DogTime expert center...

Comments

“We spent more than a thousand on 2 different vets, biopsies, tissue samples, steroids, antibiotics, topical medications and shampoos - we even switched foods. Nothing worked and the vets couldn't find real cause or help. At wits end, we tried a product called dermapaw, which healed the cracks within days. It came with soft socks and a comfortable elastic harness that kept them on. Our dog is now free from cracks and if he gets one, we just put the dermapaw on for a night or two and they go away. By the way, all the other booties we tried came off within minutes. The socks that came with the dermapaw are the only ones I've seen that not only stay on, but our dog actually lies down and allows us to put the salve and socks on. Also, don't use anything with cortizone in it because your dog will lick it and it can cause bloody stools. We also had a problem with the antibiotics causing yeast infections in his ears. You might try it and see if it helps. It worked for us. ” — Alexis Hall, Dec 09 2008

“We tried every drug and treatment, two vets, steroids, antibiotics, shampoos, booties (always came right off). Nothing worked for long. After almost a year, we found a balm called dermapaw that comes with socks that actually stay on the dog. It healed the cracks in less than a few days and the socks kept her from chewing and making things worse. You might try it. It worked for us.” — Alexis Hall, Dec 09 2008

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Dogs cracked paws?

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