How to Make a Dog's Pads Not So Rough

A dog relies on his paws for a lot, from walking to gripping toys and pinning down rawhides. Paws are naturally rough to help with traction on smooth or slippery surfaces, but when the rough pads begin to crack and chafe it can be the first sign of severely dry skin and should not be left untreated. Moisturizing can help prevent paws from cracking and bleeding.

Things You'll Need

Moisturizer formulated for dogs
Dog shampoo
Nail clippers
Scissors

Instructions

- 1
  Introduce new activities slowly. After a long winter, the first hike with the dog shouldn't be a major distance. Work up to longer walks, runs and hikes, especially on hard, rough surfaces. If the dog has had a few months away from lengthy walks and is then taken on a long and grueling hike, this can damage delicate paws and roughen them.
- 2
  Keep paws clean and free of foreign material. Dirt and other caked-on material picked up from walks or playing outside can dry out paws. Glass or other materials lodged between toes can cut paws, resulting in pain and discomfort as well as scabs, scars and dry skin.
- 3
  Treat blisters or burns immediately. Humans wouldn't go out on hot tarmac barefoot, but dogs do and they can be burned by these and other hot surfaces. Proper first aid like the application of antibacterial lotions and cooling gels can protect paws and help them heal.
- 4
  Wash paws when coming in from winter walks. Rough or sharp ice and salt can irritate paws and cause damage. Winter can be particularly tough on paws, which can be worn by rocks and gravel and dried out by salt.
- 5
  Apply moisturizer. There are moisturizers developed specifically for dogs' paws, and investing in this type of moisturizer will be much more effective than using a human lotion. Be sure paws are clean and dry before applying the moisturizer. Moisturize after baths. If dry paws and dry skin is a problem, consider using a specially formulated dog shampoo for delicate skin.