Dry Paws on Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Dog paw pads can become dry due to various factors, including exposure to harsh weather conditions, hot surfaces, or rough terrain. Additionally, some dogs may have naturally dry paw pads. To remedy dry paw pads, it’s important to moisturize regularly. Use a pet-safe paw balm or coconut oil to keep the pads supple and prevent further cracking.

Is it normal for my dog to have dry paws?

A dog’s paw pads will vary in appearance and texture depending on their age, activity level, health, and environment. Different conditions can make a dog’s paw pads feel damp or dry throughout the day, just like their nose. It’s generally best not to obsess over how your dog’s feet look on a daily basis, but some changes in appearance may make you wonder if a dog’s paws are supposed to be dry? Like, really dry?

Dog paws have evolved to take a lot of abuse because they’re in constant contact with the ground. Paw pads are made of a thick layer of specialized skin that is especially tough. Even though this tough skin does a great job of handling day-to-day wear and tear, it can develop problems that give it a dry, cracked, or damaged appearance.

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Common causes for dry paws on dogs

If you’re wondering “why are my dogs paws dry?” after noticing some changes to your dog’s feet, it could be due to some common problems that may be affecting your dog. Despite their toughness, paw pads are not the best at healing, so they often take on a dry, crusty, or flaky appearance as they try to recover from injury. Some possible triggers for dry dog paws include:

1. Hot or cold surfaces

Dogs’ paws are tough, but they can be damaged by temperature extremes. Avoid walking your dog on the pavement when the temperature is high. On a sunny, 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) day, asphalt can get up to 140 degrees Celsius (60 degrees Celsius) by midday. That’s hot enough to quickly burn paw pads. Similarly, walking in very cold temperatures can cause frostbite because of decreased circulation and freezing of tissues.

2. Walking on rough terrain

Walking your dog on rocky or uneven surfaces can lead to lacerations and abrasions on their paw pads. Creeks and shorelines are especially bad for this because they have slippery surfaces beneath the water that hide sticks and other objects that can injure your dog’s feet.

3. Abnormal activity

If you suddenly decide to take your normally couch-bound dog with you on a long hike, don’t be surprised if they develop some paw pad problems. Dogs’ feet need time to build up calluses for protection, just like people’s. Getting exercise is great, but be sure to ramp it up gradually.

4. Extra weight

Carrying extra weight can be hard on a dog’s paws, increasing the amount of pressure on them and making injury more likely. This will also increase the development of calluses, which can give the paws a drier appearance.

5. Pain

Dogs that have a hurt leg will limp to protect the limb. This means the other legs are forced to carry extra weight. This may lead to abnormal wear patterns on the weight-bearing paws and change their appearance.

6. Allergies

Dogs with allergic dermatitis due to environmental, contact, flea, food, or other allergies may have lesions on their paws that make them look dry and flaky. Starting therapy to control allergies can help the paws return to their normal appearance.

7. Other health conditions

There are numerous conditions that can give dogs’ paws a dry, crusted, or irregular appearance. Contagious diseases like distemper, autoimmune diseases like pemphigus foliaceus, and genetic diseases like hereditary footpad hyperkeratosis can all cause paw problems.

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What do dry paws on dogs look like?

A dog’s paw pads should normally be fairly dry, but they should have a smooth appearance and surface. They may be a little damp when conditions are hot or after activity because dogs’ paw pads have sweat glands to help get rid of some excess heat. A dog may also have wet paws if they’ve been licking at them due to allergies or an irritant. An excessively dry appearance may be abnormal, so look out for the following symptoms of problems associated with dry paw pads:

• Irregular or roughened paw pad surface

• Fissures or cracks in the paw pads

• Bleeding

• Pain when paw pads are pressed on

• Limping

• Wounds

• Blisters

• Raised, firm, circular areas (similar to corns)

Should I take my dog to the vet for dry paws?

See your veterinarian if your dog’s paw pads have a sudden change in appearance or if there are any obvious wounds. You should have your vet check out your dog’s paws if they begin limping or seem painful around their feet.

Depending on the appearance of the paws, they may recommend medications to treat them and advise changes to your dog’s activity to prevent additional problems. If the dry paws aren’t improving, your vet may recommend a biopsy if they are concerned about a more serious condition.

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How to treat dry paws on dogs

Dry paw pads may or may not need medication. For some injuries that are healing well, giving them additional time to recover may be the only recommendation. For paws that have more severe damage or that are not healing well, some therapies may be recommended by your vet. These may include medications like:

• Omega-3 fatty acids to promote healing

• Steroids to control an autoimmune or allergic disease, if suspected

• Pentoxifylline to improve blood flow in some conditions

• Vitamin E to promote skin healing

• Topical balms to protect and nourish skin

Topical medications are often used for dogs’ dry paws when they’re exposed to harsh conditions or experience a lot of wear. These balms may consist of hydrating creams or protective waxes that protect the pads and encourage healing. Always follow your vet’s instructions for applying these medications, but you can refer to this step-by-step guide for how to apply topical medication to your dog’s dry paws.

1. Lay your dog down

Have your dog lay on their side and give lots of pets to make this a positive experience. Making this a fun event with rewards will keep your dog from running away when you reach for the medication.

2. Clean their paws

Use a damp washcloth to wipe any dirt and debris off your dog’s paws. A mild soap can be used if needed, just be sure to rinse it all away before proceeding.

3. Dry the paws well

Get in between the toes and pads to make sure all the hair is as dry as possible. This will help prevent a moist dermatitis from developing.

4. Apply a thin layer of medication

Follow the instructions given by your veterinarian, but most topical medications only require a thin layer to work. Extra will just get caught in the hair or rub off.

5. Use an Elizabethan collar (cone)

If recommended by your vet, a cone may be needed to prevent your dog from licking at their paws and removing the medication.

6. Reward with treats

Reinforce your dog’s good behavior and cooperation with their favorite treat.

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Other home remedies for dry paws on dogs

For mild cases of dry or crusty paws, your veterinarian may recommend simpler treatment. Dry dog paws home remedies include moisturizing the paws and preventing damage. A common recommendation for at-home care for dry paws is to spread a small amount of coconut oil on the dry paw pads. Use the steps above to encourage your dog to allow this. Don’t let them lick off the coconut oil, as some dogs can be sensitive to extra oils in their diet and develop diarrhea.

Prevention is the key to limiting damage to your dog’s dry paws. Dogs that go outside in very cold or hot climates may need protection for their feet. Teaching your dog to wear booties that protect their paws can help to prevent injuries. It’s best to start this process before the temperature is too extreme — most dogs need a bit of time to adjust to walking with booties on.

FAQs (People also ask):

Do dry paws hurt dogs?

Excessively dry or cracked paw pads can be painful for some dogs. They may show signs of pain by licking at the paws, limping, holding a foot up at rest, or whimpering when the paw is touched.

What should I do if my dog’s dry paw pad cracks?

When a dog’s paws are dry and cracked, see your veterinarian for advice about how to treat them and tests to make sure there’s not an underlying cause. If recommended, balms and booties can help dry paws heal and recover.

Is there medication available for dry paws on dogs?

There are medications to help dry paws on dogs heal. Most dry paws are treated with supplements, topical medication, and protection. Some dogs may require systemic medication if there is a more serious cause for their dry paws.

References:

• University of Georgia Cooperative Extension: How Hot Does Pavement Get in the Summer?

• Biochemical and Histopathological Evaluation of Changes in Sled Dog Paw Skin Associated With Physical Stress and Cold Temperatures

• Macroscopic Distribution, Histopathology and Viral Antigen Expression in Dogs with Canine Distemper Virus-induced Hyperkeratosis in Nasodigital and Other Regions

• Whole-Genome Sequencing of a Canine Family Trio Reveals a FAM83G Variant Associated with Hereditary Footpad Hyperkeratosis