Cracked paw pads in dogs: why they appear and how to care for them
Dog paw pads are designed to withstand thousands of steps every day. They walk on asphalt, dirt, stones, sand, or grass with barely any protection, so it is normal for them to suffer constant wear and tear.
When they do not receive proper care, cracks, dryness, or small wounds can appear, causing the dog discomfort when walking. In most cases, this is a problem that can be prevented with a good hydration routine and regular check-ups.
In this article, we explain the most frequent causes of cracked paw pads, how to treat them, and what steps you can take to prevent them from reappearing.
Why do a dog's paw pads crack?
Cracks appear when the skin loses elasticity and begins to harden. As they walk, that dry skin eventually breaks, and small fissures appear.
The most common causes are:
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Lack of hydration.
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Very long walks.
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Hot asphalt.
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Abrasive terrain.
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Extreme cold.
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Contact with snow or salt.
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Advanced age.
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Intense physical activity.
Dogs that go hiking or spend many hours outdoors usually have greater wear and tear on their paws.
Symptoms of cracked paw pads
It is important to check their paws frequently to detect any changes.
Some common symptoms are:
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Visible cracks.
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Dry skin.
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Hardening.
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Small cuts.
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Redness.
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Bleeding in more severe cases.
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Pain when walking.
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Constant licking of the paws.
If the dog avoids putting weight on a paw or has a deep wound, it is advisable to go to the veterinarian.
What to do if your dog has cracked paw pads?
The first thing to do is carefully examine the paws to check the severity of the cracks.
If they are superficial, basic care is usually sufficient.
Clean the area
Remove any dirt using lukewarm water.
Avoid products that could be irritating.
Dry the paws completely
Persistent moisture encourages the appearance of new lesions.
Dry the space between the toes thoroughly.
Keep the paw pads hydrated
Applying a specific balm helps to restore skin elasticity and promotes the regeneration of small cracks.
Additionally, it creates a protective film that reduces wear during walks.
Temporarily reduce long walks
While the paw pads are recovering, it is advisable to avoid overly long routes or very abrasive terrain.
How to prevent cracks
Prevention is much simpler than treatment.
Some tips are:
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Check the paws after every walk.
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Maintain good hydration.
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Avoid walking on very hot asphalt.
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Clean the paws after walking on snow or salt.
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Check for small wounds.
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Use specific products for paw pad care.
With this care, it is possible to considerably reduce the appearance of cracks.
Care during summer
In summer, asphalt can reach very high temperatures.
To protect the paw pads:
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Walk early in the morning.
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Avoid the hottest hours of the day.
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Look for grassy areas.
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Carry water during the walk.
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Check the paws upon returning home.
Care during winter
Although many people associate cracks only with heat, winter can also cause problems.
Snow and salt dry out the skin and promote the appearance of small fissures.
After every walk, it is advisable to:
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Clean the paws.
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Dry them completely.
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Apply a moisturizing balm.
Mistakes you should avoid
When cracks appear, it is common to make some mistakes.
Among the most frequent are:
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Using creams meant for humans.
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Not cleaning the paws.
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Waiting too long to treat them.
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Continuing to go for long walks.
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Ignoring the dog's pain.
Acting quickly helps prevent cracks from worsening.
Frequently asked questions
Do cracked paw pads go away on their own?
Mild cracks can improve with proper care, although it is advisable to keep the area clean and hydrated to promote recovery.
Is it normal for paw pads to be rough?
It is normal for them to have a harder texture than the rest of the skin, but if cracks or excessive dryness appear, it is advisable to step up care.
Can I continue to walk my dog?
Yes, although it is advisable to reduce the intensity of walks until the paw pads have fully recovered.
When should I go to the veterinarian?
If there is heavy bleeding, a deep wound, infection, or the dog is obviously limping.
Conclusion
Cracked paw pads are a relatively common problem, especially in very active dogs or those exposed to extreme weather conditions. With regular check-ups, good hydration, and some simple care, it is possible to prevent most lesions and keep paws in good condition all year round.
Devoting a few minutes to caring for the paw pads will help your dog enjoy their walks with greater comfort and will reduce the risk of future discomfort.