How to Care for Your Dog’s Cracked Paws

Have you ever stepped on pavement, barefoot, in the middle of summer? If so, you know how quickly that hot pavement will burn your feet. Just like humans, dogs feet can also burn, crack and blister when exposed to extreme temperatures. Hot pavement, blacktop, and even sand can damage your pups paw pads. The harsh winter weather can do some damage to your dogs feet as well. Today I’m sharing tips to keep your pups paws in tip top shape. 

Causes

A dogs paw can be damaged from multiple different situations. Hot surfaces can cause a dogs paw to crack or blister, meanwhile, extreme cold can cause the paw to become chapped. The salt used on roads and sidewalks to prevent snow from sticking can also cause infections, sores, and blisters to a dogs feet. 

Dogs can also experience injury to their paws from stepping on sharp objects such as rocks or pieces of glass. 

If your dog walks on rocky terrain they can end up with small pebbles or sticks in the crevices between their toes which can make it painful for your pup to walk. 

Dogs can also experience cracked paws due to seasonal allergies. 

What to look for

If you notice your dog limping or licking at their feet a lot, that is a sign that their paws may be damaged. Check each of their paw pads for cracks and bleeding. Your dogs paws should not be super dry and should look mostly smooth. When checking your pups feet, make sure you’re keeping an eye out for anything that could be stuck between their toes or toe pads and remove any foreign objects. 

Cures

If you notice that your pups paws seem cracked or dry, using a paw balm can help moisturize them. If your dog seems to be in a lot of pain, or the paws don’t heal after a couple of days, a trip to the vet is a good idea.

Prevention

Be mindful of where you’re walking your dog. If you wouldn’t want to walk barefoot on the pavement, your dog probably doesn’t either. If you notice your dog limping or avoiding the sidewalk during your walks, that is a sign that it is too hot and you should find a grassy area to walk them in instead. You can also purchase a pair of dog booties for walking your dog in extreme weather. Checking your dogs feet daily and applying paw balm regularly will keep them happy and healthy.