Ever had a look at the bottom of your dogs’ paws? And feel the difference between your feet and theirs? Dogs can run and jump on many different surfaces and terrain – their paws are designed to be tough. But that doesn't mean they can’t develop problems on their paw pads.
“The pedal skin of dogs is exposed to a greater variety and intensity of trauma than any other region of the body (Anderson, 1980). Force plate analysis studies have demonstrated that the front feet, by leading the animal in flight and accepting the greater force of impact, suffer more mechanical trauma than the hind feet (Rumph et al., 1995).”
Quoted from the article: Canine pododermatitis and idiopathic disease.
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Content:
Why Are My Dog's Paws So Rough
Dog’s paws are designed to be rough and tough to manage different types of terrain and surfaces. However, it does not mean that they are immune to problems caused by undesirable surfaces, such as hot tar roads or sharp rocks. It is recommended to invest in a Pet Camera for when you are away from home to keep an eye on your beloved pet. In this way you would be able to see any limping or even blood on your floor while away from home.
Dog’s paw pads can crack and form gaps in the pads itself from either external factors, general wear and tear or internal health problems. Other symptoms to look out for are:
- Swelling or inflammation
- Excessive licking or chewing at paws
- Bleeding
- Limping or favouring one foot over another
- Change in behaviour
- Change in colour of paw pads – redness or any discolouration
Some breeds are predisposed to abnormalities on their paw pads, such as Irish Terriers. Some common causes of cracked or injured paw pads are:
- External factors: walking on hot tar roads can cause paws to blister or extreme cold weather can dry out your dog’s paw pads
- Hyperkeratosis – skin is abnormally thickened
- Pododermatitis (inflammatory disease of paw pads)
- Autoimmune disease: some diseases can cause skin to be fragile and dry
- Chemicals: exposure to harsh chemicals can cause irritation
- Nutritional imbalance – zinc deficiency
- Allergic reaction that irritates the paw pads
A study on hereditary footpad hyperkeratosis (HFH) says: “HFH affected dogs develop deep fissures in the paw pads, which are the consequence of a pathological thickening of the outermost layer of the epidermis.” – Dr M Drögemüller.
How to Soften Dog Paws
Good quality coconut oil can help to soften dry paw pads, but I would recommend speaking to your veterinarian about their preferred product for your dog as there are specifically formulated products available. There may be many home recipes available on the internet, but I would not use anything without the go ahead of your veterinarian that it is safe. Not only can you possibly cause damage, but you also need to determine the underlying cause of the problem.
Can You Put Vaseline on Dog's Paws
It is not recommended to put Vaseline on your dogs’ paws. This is not a long-term solution to dry paw pads and can cause more harm than good. If you have slippery surfaces such as tiled or laminate flooring, your dog is very likely to slip with Vaseline on his paws and can seriously injure a muscle or ligament.
I cannot recommend investing in Petcube Emergency Fund enough. Cracked, or bleeding paw pads is not a normal everyday problem, and it is best to consult a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. This can involve a multitude of tests, and you do not want your budget to constrain your treatment options.
Conclusion
The best thing that you can do for your pooch is to consult a veterinarian if you suspect any of the symptoms mentioned above.