Your dog̵7;s paw pads are designed to be tough and dry, according to Vetinfo4dogs.com. The pads of a dog̵7;s paws work like shoes for humans by protecting them from the surfaces they walk or run on. In order to not be painful and help avoid injury, the pads should be thick and rough. However, if your dog̵7;s feet become cracked then treatment is necessary.
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Look
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Examine your dog̵7;s paws using a flashlight. If your dog is showing any signs of pain or tenderness, muzzle your dog first. Search for cuts, foreign objects, signs of infections or problems other than dryness. Swelling, heat, pus or other signs of infection need veterinary care and antibiotics. Toenail involvement is particularly dangerous as infections spread quickly or can indicate cancer. Mike Richards, DVM and writer for Vetinfo.com, says foot issues can be caused by other problems such as injury or even immune system problems such as phemphigus. Severe cracking or finding a problem other than dryness and moderate cracking requires veterinary evaluation.
Mild
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Purchase moisturizer intended for dog paw pads. Do not use human moisturizers as these may moisturize too much or contain products not safe for your dog to lick off. Vetinfo.com recommends that you use a moisturizer only occasionally to prevent making the paws too soft to protect the feet.
Moderate
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DoctorDog.com recommends bandaging the pads and putting on old socks to keep the bandages on. This will help protect the pads while they heal. Be careful to wrap loosely. You can secure the socks with bandaging tape but do not wrap tightly. Check your dog̵7;s feet every 15 minutes for the first hour after bandaging and then every hour to 2 hours to make sure no swelling occurs from overly tight bandaging or taping.
Licking
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Watch your dog for any signs of constant licking. Licking can result in cracking and inflammation. Richards says both food and generalized allergies can cause your dog to have itchy feet and lick them. He recommends washing the feet to help remove allergens. Your veterinarian may recommend an elimination diet or antihistamines or prescribe canine topical antihistamines or steroids.
Prevention
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Purchase special boots made for dogs. Richards recommends these boots for dogs who are active and have an ongoing problem in order to protect from injury. Check your dog̵7;s pads at least weekly once healed and apply moisturizer early before damage progresses. If your dog is on hard or abrasive surfaces, consider special padding or surface covering in crate or pen area. Avoid having your dog on hot pavements. Wipe your dog̵7;s feet off when it comes in if you use chemicals on your lawn.
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