Socks, slippers, sandals, boots… we humans have many ways to protect our feet , but not our dogs!

Their pads are like our sneakers… sneakers that you can’t throw in the trash and replace.

Additionally, in addition to coming into direct contact with all types of surfaces and terrain, dogs sweat through their pads and rely on them to absorb shock.

Our dogs’ pads are therefore particularly stressed, and if they split and crack , this can cause them a lot of pain and discomfort .

For all these reasons, it is essential to take care of our dogs’ pads .

Does your dog have dry , red , swollen , cracked , chapped , irritated or open pads ?

Here’s how to take care of it using natural remedies , but also how to avoid this type of problem in the future.

 

What exactly are dog pads?

Dogs’ pads consist of a layer of pigmented skin, usually pink or black, that covers fatty tissue.

Because fat is insulating , the pads provide some protection for your dog’s paws from cold surfaces in winter.

The pads are also an integral part of your dog’s foot structure and work in conjunction with your pet’s nails (which protect the pads).

The pads help your dog maintain balance and provide stability and shock absorption .

You may notice that your dog’s pads are rough and calloused or smooth and supple ; it all depends on the terrain your dog regularly walks on.

If you take him hiking often or he regularly walks on asphalt , he will have more calluses due to his exposure to rougher terrain.

If your dog is older and does n’t walk as much, or spends most of his time running on grass , his pads will likely be smoother (and more likely to tear when he walks on rougher surfaces).

 

Common Dog Paw Problems

But dogs’ pads are exposed to much more than the type of terrain they trudge over.

Burns, allergies, infections, wounds… There are many problems that can happen to your dog’s pads .

Here are the main risks to your dog’s pads:

• Cuts, abrasions and lacerations
• Foreign bodies stuck (twigs, glasses, etc.)
• Bacterial infections
• Frostbite or burns
• Allergy
• Chemicals on the road or sidewalk
• Parasitic infections
• Hormonal problems
• Excessive walks
• Nail problems (too long, ingrown, etc.)
• Bulbs
• Parasites

 

Signs of Dog Pad Problems & Injuries

There are several signs that can alert you that your dog has a problem with his pads and that they are painful .

Here are the main signals:

• Licking and chewing of the affected paw(s)
• Lameness
• Red pads
• Dry, cracked or irritated pads
• Swollen pads
• Lesions
• Localized hair loss
• Ulcers with crusts
• Bulbs
• Cuts, abrasions and tears
• Pus in the pads
• Skin peeling off the pads
• Refusal to walk
• Cysts and growths
• Bleeding
• Foul odor coming from one or more legs
• Flaming paws
• Hot spots on the pads

If your pet exhibits one or more of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian to make sure it is not a serious problem.

 

How do I take care of my dog’s pads on a daily basis?

There are several preventative measures that can protect your dog’s pads.

Here’s a simple routine you can adopt at home to take care of your dog’s pads and prevent potential problems.

Maintain your dog’s paws

Your dog’s nails should be trimmed if they touch the ground when your dog walks.

How often you should trim your dog’s nails depends on your dog, with some breeds not needing to be trimmed at all.

Nail trimming should be a calm , low- stress experience for both you and your dog.

Teaching your dog to accept having his paws touched can make nail trimming easier.

You can also teach your dog to file his own nails using a scratching board .

Avoid holding your dog or trimming his nails when he is showing signs of stress and fear because, just like humans, he will remember this traumatic event, making it more difficult or even impossible to do so in the future.

Also moisturize your dog’s pads to keep them healthy and prevent them from becoming dry.

For example, you can use a nourishing balm specially designed for dogs every day, such as that of Botaneo , the brand for natural animal well-being.

This ultra-rich treatment combines the natural benefits of coconut oil , with those of shea butter , beeswax and CBD (hemp extract) to nourish, soothe, repair and protect dog pads (and other damaged and irritated areas).

Finally, remember to keep your dog’s pads dry to prevent the proliferation of bacteria and the development of infections. Wipe them especially after a walk in the rain or a bath.

Pay attention to weather conditions

In summer , it is important to avoid walking your dog on sidewalks or hot sand to avoid burns.

In winter , salt and ice can hurt your dog’s paw pads, so try to avoid these things and after walks, wash your dog’s paws with warm water to rinse off the chemicals , ice and salt.

Use a moisturizer to prevent the legs from drying out and cracking.

Do not use human lotions or moisturizers on your dog.

Slowly accustom your dog to new terrain

Just as humans can develop calluses from exposure to rough surfaces , the same can happen to your dog if you plan on hiking frequently or know your dog will be walking on rougher surfaces.

Start with short periods on these surfaces to allow your dog’s pads to build up resistance over time.

Check your dog’s pads regularly

It is important to check your dog’s pads , preferably after playing outside or doing strenuous activities, as these are the most likely times for injuries to occur.

This is also when your dog is most likely to get something stuck in a pad or between his toes.

Clean up any debris , and watch for any injuries or blisters.

Always be prepared to perform first aid procedures .

It is important to have a first aid kit for your dog in case of minor injuries.

If you notice a small cut or blister on one of your dog’s paws, clean it with an antibacterial product and bandage the area as best you can.

You can also put a dog boot on your companion to prevent further damage.

Keep an eye on your dog and contact your veterinarian.

Finally, remember that any abnormal signs in the pads deserve a veterinary appointment .

My dog ​​has dry and/or cracked pads

This is one of the most common pad problems. It often happens that our dogs’ pads are dry or cracked .

This could be a sign of a minor or more serious problem .

This is why it is important to never take abnormal pads lightly, whether they are dry, cracked or otherwise.

Why does my dog ​​have dry and/or cracked pads?

There are multiple causes that can lead to dry pads, cracked pads, or both.

Here are the main ones:

The heat

As the weather warms up, the sidewalks can become too hot for our dogs’ delicate and sensitive pads!

Keep in mind that if the floor is too hot to leave the palm of your hand on it for a few seconds, this means that your companion could burn his pads.

Especially since a hot floor can suck moisture from his paws and prevent him from cooling down properly via sweating on his pads.

Cold

Likewise, cold weather can cause dry pads . In addition to snow, ice, wind, and winter temperatures, sidewalks and roads are often covered in irritants like sand and salt.

Chemical products

Many chemicals can cause your dog’s pads to become dry and cracked.

For example, the salt used to melt ice in winter is not the salt you keep on your table, and it may contain chemicals .

Additionally, when spring comes, fertilizer on your lawn or garden can irritate your dog’s paws.

Finally, it is possible that your companion is sensitive to your household cleaning products , particularly those used on your floors or carpets.

Allergic reactions

Like humans, dogs can suffer from environmental allergies !

The big difference is that their paws are completely exposed to these irritants because they don’t wear shoes!

Food allergies can also cause paw irritation.

Sometimes these allergies cause your dog’s pads to itch, leading him to compulsively lick and chew them.

Beware of this behavior! Excessive licking and chewing of the pads can themselves lead to painful infections or dry, cracked pads.

What should I do if my dog ​​has dry/cracked paw pads?

If your dog has dry or cracked paw pads, it’s time to take care of them. Here’s how:

Identifying the Cause of Dry, Cracked Pads

It’s easy to check if your dog’s pads are dry or cracked at home.

– Lift his legs and examine them for cracks on the pads

– If the cracks are open, check for signs of bleeding or infection

– Also check if your dog is limping or showing signs of discomfort while walking

If your furry friend has chronically dry and irritated pads , be sure to take him to the vet to figure out the cause.

But if he’s healthy, you can help keep his paws healthy and hydrated with a few simple steps !

Apply shea butter to dry pads

This popular ingredient is known for its moisturizing properties, for both humans and dogs!

This natural substance is actually fat from the nuts that grow on the African shea tree, and works wonders for moisturizing and soothing dry skin and pads.

Shea butter is a great option because it’s non- toxic to dogs, so even if your pet licks it off before it has time to soak in, it won’t hurt him.

Additionally, shea butter is easier to apply with a paw balm specially designed for dogs.

Apply Coconut Oil to Cracked Pads

Like shea butter, coconut oil is natural and safe for your dog.

It is known for its antibacterial , antiviral and moisturizing properties , and can be used as a home treatment for a multitude of skin problems.

Give CBD for relief

This hemp extract is especially useful if your dog’s pads are sore . Calming and soothing , CBD will relieve your dog in a gentle and natural way .

You can find CBD, coconut oil and shea butter in Botaneo’s nourishing dog balm . Ideal for your dog to regain smooth, soft and perfectly healthy pads.

Give water to hydrate

It’s important for our furballs to stay hydrated , and this is especially essential if they suffer from dry, cracked skin or pads .

Because how can these pads retain their hydration if their bodies are thirsty?

How do I care for my dog’s pads and prevent them from becoming dry and/or cracked?

By taking a few precautions , you can help prevent pad irritation!

If the temperatures are extreme and your pooch is cooperative and wears booties, this is a great way to protect his feet from the elements.

Otherwise, avoid walking on hot sidewalks and try to avoid areas that are covered in salt in winter.

If you can’t avoid these places, be sure to wipe your dog’s paws as soon as he comes inside.

If it is an allergy or sensitivity that is causing your dog’s dry pads, consult your veterinarian about possible dietary changes, supplements, or prescription medications.

Finally, try changing your chemical floor cleaners to natural, non-toxic products.

 

My dog ​​has red pads

In addition to cracked and dry pads, it is common for dogs to have red pads .

Here again, it is important to take this phenomenon seriously and observe it closely in order to act appropriately if necessary.

Why does my dog ​​have red pads?

A dog’s feet can be red in two places: the pads of the paws and the skin surrounding those pads, usually between the toes or around the nails.

Pododermatitis

Red pads can be attributed to a variety of conditions known as pododermatitis .

Pododermatitis can be caused by inflammation that can be symptomatic of allergies , immune system -related diseases , infections , or disorders that can imbalance a dog’s hormones.

Often the paws or pads become red and swollen, and may produce pus-filled lesions.

Drought

Red, cracked pads can also be attributed to dryness , which is not uncommon during the winter months.

Yeast dermatitis

If your dog has red skin on his paws, it could also be due to yeast dermatitis , a skin infection caused by a microscopic fungus.

Yeast infections in dogs are uncomfortable, but they are a fairly common, non-contagious , and easily treatable condition.

Yeast dermatitis is usually linked to allergies , sebum production and, sometimes, immune deficiencies .

What should I do if my dog ​​has red paw pads?

Identify the cause

Identifying the cause of the redness is the first step toward healing your dog’s pads.

Sometimes a visit to your veterinarian may be necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis and begin medication treatment.

Protecting red pads

Red, cracked pads can usually be improved by applying a protective barrier around the paw, such as booties, as well as a moisturizer.

Use medications and natural remedies

For dogs with paw ulcers, inflammation, or pain, prescription medication will likely be needed, depending on the diagnosis of pododermatitis.

For dogs with yeast infections on their paws, sprays, topical creams , or oral medications may be prescribed by a veterinarian, which may be necessary for dogs with recurring outbreaks.

Since yeast infections are caused by fungus, an antifungal treatment that comes with at-home ingredients may be sufficient in some cases.

One such ingredient is vinegar , which can be mixed with water and used to soak the paws for several minutes each day, until the infection has cleared.

Here too, CBD can relieve your dog in case of pain thanks to its natural calming and soothing benefits .

How do I care for my dog’s pads and prevent them from becoming red?

Yeast infections can be prevented by keeping your pet’s paws as dry as possible.

So wipe your dog’s paws after a walk in the rain and as soon as they get wet.

Also discourage licking to avoid causing infection.

Keep your dog’s nails trimmed, clean and dry, as fungus tends to lodge under the nails.

 

My dog ​​has swollen paw pads

Swollen pads are also common in dogs and it is important to understand the cause in order to take action if necessary.

Why does my dog ​​have swollen paw pads?

Many things can cause swelling in the pads.

For example, a foreign object may become stuck between your dog’s toes, such as a twig, shard, nail, gravel or piece of metal.

A sharp object can also puncture a paw pad, causing swelling.

The same goes for claws , which can fracture or splinter and cause swollen pads.

The pads may also become swollen in response to insect or spider bites .

What should I do if my dog ​​has swollen paw pads?

Finding the cause of swollen pads

You’ll likely notice changes in the way your dog walks before you notice a problem with the leg itself. If you see your dog limping, favoring a limb, hobbling, rocking, or doing anything unusual, examine his legs and then consult your veterinarian for a second opinion.

Lift your dog’s sore paw and check all the nails before running your fingers over the skin and looking closely between the pads. Is there a growth between the toes?

If the front legs are swollen, and it is because your dog has been licking them excessively, it could be due to allergies .

Are his ears also swollen and red? What about his belly? Is his skin rough in other places due to constant scratching ?

If all of his paws are swollen , check the pads and see if they are damaged by the heat of the pavement.

Remove the foreign body

If only one leg is affected , you are most likely dealing with trauma, a foreign body (such as a thorn in the leg), or possibly a spider bite.

If you notice a small object stuck between your dog’s toes, remove it if possible. Use tweezers and gently pull on the object. If it doesn’t come out easily, don’t force it.

If you can’t remove an object , aren’t sure how deep it may be in the paw, or see bleeding or obvious signs of pain, let your veterinarian take a look before trying anything. Your veterinarian may want to treat an infection or other complications.

Using Betadine

If your dog has stepped on a sharp object or injured its paw, you can wash and clean the wound with a betadine solution.

Do an Epsom Salt Foot Bath

For a swollen paw pad of unknown cause, one of the best treatments is to soak the paw in Epsom salts (about 2 tablespoons in a quart of water) for about 15 minutes. That’s not to say it’s the easiest treatment. Many dogs just won’t take it.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar

If your dog’s paw smells yeasty, especially when he licks it, he may already have a yeast infection secondary to his allergies.

These infections are usually present all over the body, but if you catch it early, you can treat it with apple cider vinegar.

The best treatment is to soak the paw in diluted apple cider vinegar and then let it air dry without rinsing.

Note : Apple cider vinegar may also be effective in reducing itchy skin secondary to allergies.

Soak the pads in warm water

If the swelling is in the pads, and they are very rough and scaly, it may help to soften them by soaking them in warm water.

If your dog does not respond to the dip, have him checked out by his regular veterinarian as soon as possible. Some diseases (like lupus) will require much more testing.

Consult a veterinarian

Of course, other obvious signs of pain, bleeding or trauma should be immediately addressed by a veterinarian.

How to care for your dog’s pads and prevent them from becoming swollen?

Prevent swelling of the legs by avoiding surfaces with stones or rocks or any other dangerous areas.

Check your dog’s paws every time your pet comes inside.

 

My dog ​​has open pads

Paw pad injuries are common in dogs, so it is not uncommon to see cuts and sores in this area.

Why does my dog ​​have open pads?

Your dog’s pads act like the sole of a pair of sneakers, protecting your dog’s paw, cushioning each step.

The pads are durable , but they can be cut by sharp objects or worn down if your dog runs on rough terrain.

There are many causes that can cause damage to a dog’s pads. For example, your companion may have stepped on a piece of glass or cut himself on a stone.

What should I do if my dog ​​has open pads?

Clean the wound

Gently rinse the wound with water or an antiseptic, such as diluted chlorhexidine solution.

If there is any obvious debris, such as gravel or glass, remove it carefully.

Do not force anything lodged deep in the foot and consult a veterinarian if necessary.

Disinfect the area

Once the pad is clean and dry, disinfect it with diluted Betadine or rinse it with sterile saline. You can soak a clean cotton ball in either and use it to thoroughly disinfect the area; let it air dry for a few minutes.

Control the bleeding

Apply pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding.

Use a clean towel and an ice pack, if possible, to help constrict the blood vessels.

There may not be much bleeding, but deep wounds and punctures can cause heavy bleeding .

Assess the damage

Minor paw injuries can be treated at home, but more serious ones will require veterinary attention .

Uncontrolled bleeding is an emergency; if your dog’s paw continues to bleed after several minutes of pressure, call your veterinarian and make an appointment at the clinic.

Deep or irregular cuts may require sutures for optimal healing.

Your dog may also need a sedative to sufficiently clean the wound if there is persistent debris, such as small pieces of gravel, and anything that is firmly lodged in the foot will need to be surgically removed .

Your dog may also need antibiotics to protect against infections.

If you are unsure, consider a visit to the vet; your veterinarian can give you peace of mind and give your dog the care he needs.

Relieve your dog

To alleviate inflammation and pain, you can turn to natural solutions like CBD . This calming and soothing hemp extract will relieve your dog in a gentle and healthy way.

Bandage the wound

Place gauze directly on the cut.

You can fix it with adhesive tape.

The bandage should be tight enough to stay in place, but also loose enough to allow good circulation to your dog’s paw. You should be able to slide two fingers under the bandage.

Keep the bandage dry . Moisture allows bacteria to pass through the bandage and into the wound. You can use a dog boot to protect the bandage when your dog goes outside or simply cover it with a plastic bag .

Most leg bandages need to be changed daily , especially if there is continued bleeding or discharge.

Allow time to heal

Your dog’s cut paw pad will heal faster if it is protected until it is completely healed.

Keep him calm and prevent him from running or chewing the bandage (this may require the use of a veterinary collar).

How do I care for my dog’s pads and avoid cuts?

Cuts, abrasions and lacerations can happen at any time and are common as dogs run and play on varied terrain.

It is important to be careful of sharp objects on the ground when walking your dogs and to ensure that you provide them with adequate protection when running on rough or uneven ground or pavement.

It is not uncommon to find foreign objects such as small rocks, sticks, broken glass and debris in cuts and tears.

Always keep an eye on your dog’s pads to make sure everything is okay.