Dogs are some of the most loyal creatures on earth. But, as a dog owner, sometimes you have to do things that may be hard for them, which can really get frustrating! One thing you might have to do is deal with dry dog paws. If you have ever gone through a dry spell, then you know that there is nothing worse than your dog’s paws. They usually become very uncomfortable and seem painful, or they may even hurt. Although they occur frequently, the good news is there are a few home remedies that can help them out.
Common Causes Of Dry Dog Paw Pad
So, what causes dry dog paws? Well, it actually can be many things. The main causes of dry dog paws are:
1.Trimming nails
When your dog has been groomed at the salon regularly and gets into a habit of clipping or shaving their nails regularly, it can cause this problem. As a result, if they do so again, it can form a dry callus and become painful and irritating. Furthermore, be aware of sharp objects in your home and yard, including shoes or nails that touch the floor. These can cut their paw pads and cause this problem.
2.Rough surfaces
If you have a dog with poor blood circulation, he can be more susceptible to skin conditions. However, if they walk on rough surfaces or places with a lot of friction, it can cause lesions to form, which can be painful.
3.Daily walking Exercise
If your dog is overweight, then it can put a lot of stress on its back and feet as it tires out. The pressure can be too much for calluses to handle and cause this problem.
4.Coldness
If you have an active dog who spends most of his time outside or if you live in an area that experience weather changes, he will need something to keep his paws warm from the cold. In time, it can result in dryness that requires time to resolve.
5.Chemicals
If you have too many chemical cleaners or additives in your home, there is a chance that they can get into the water supply. The chemical can cause health problems, such as cancer and congenital disabilities, for years to come.
It is a good idea to check your home and see if you have any cleaning products, perfumes, or other dangerous chemicals that your pet might come into contact with. In this way, you can prevent future problems with your pet.
6.Allergic Reactions
If your dog is allergic to something, you will find that he often scratches his paws during the day or at home. You might find that these are the only places that itch. If this is the case, then you can apply an ointment to his paws.
Symptoms of Dry Dog Paws
So, how can you tell if your dog has dry dog paws? Here are some of the main symptoms:
1.Lack of flexibility
When a dog’s paw pads become dry and brittle, it loses its flexibility. Due to this, they have difficulty walking around like normal. Because they cannot put their entire weight on their feet, they will naturally try to shake their legs off.
2.Propping
If your dog has dry paw pads, then it may be easier for him to get into the habit of putting their paws up against something when resting or giving you kisses.
3.Limping
If your dog is beginning to limp, it could be because his foot is sore from the damage. Another thing that could cause a limp is if you have been trimming your dog’s nails incorrectly.
4.Pain
If your dog is limping or pawing, it’s probably because he has sore pads. In this case, an ice pack and some TLC are in order until the problem clears up.
5.Scratching
It’s important to take note of how often your dog scratches at his paws. If he does it often, you should take him to the vet because that might be a sign of an allergy.
Dry Dog Paws home remedies
It is important to take care of your dog’s feet at all times. This will help prevent this problem from happening. There are many home remedies for this problem, but I’ll give you just one example here: use half-and-half cream mixed with baking soda. It’s easy, and even your pup will love how soft their feet feel afterwards!
If this doesn’t work, Below are some home remedies that will briefly guide you on how to cure dry dog paws.
1.Water
When taking care of your dog, make sure that they get plenty of water or creek water in their bowl every day. They need to drink as much as they need to keep themselves hydrated. However, do not give them too much because it can cause diarrhea and make the feet more susceptible to infections. Instead, just feed your dog small amounts of creek water every day.
2.Moisturizer
Most dogs need to have a moisturizer or cream for the paws. If you do not have one on hand, then you can make your dog some yourself. To do this, you mix 1/2 cup of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of aloe vera gel and stir it until it is smooth. Apply the mixture to your dog’s paws and gently rub for a few minutes. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
3.Oil massages
If your dog has dry paw pads or brittle feet, then it can be a good idea to give them an oil massage once or twice a week. This will help prevent drying and cracking while also keeping the blood moving through their veins so that they can heal faster.
The benefits are much greater than the downsides of oil massages. Therefore, you should apply it even if you just use a little bit on them once in a while. Its one of the best dry dog paws home remedies that you will find.
4.Booties/ Dog shoes
Dog boots can be a good idea for dogs that have dry paw pads. They will help protect the paws and keep them warm. But, if you want to go the extra mile, then you can make your dog booties using baby wipes. To do this:
- Cut up several baby wipes into small pieces.
- Put them into a plastic bag and fold them over the top of it.
- Put these in your freezer for about 30 minutes.
- After this time is up, take the soft wipes out of the freezer and put them on the bottom of your dog’s feet.
- Wrap them around his paws and keep them there until he is done with playing or going outside if he is at home.
5.Cupuacu Butter
Dogs’ paws can benefit from a natural alternative in the form of cupuacu butter. This is a cream made from a fruit plant called cupuacu. You can apply this cream directly to your pet’s feet, or you can make it into massage oil before giving it to them. You should use this product after bathing your dog and doing their nails.
You should coat their paws with this oil up until they have been thoroughly dried off with paper towels or a towel. Ensure that you remember to do so twice a day while still leaving it on their paws until they are completely dry.
6.Footbaths
A footbath can be another good option for those dogs that have dry paw pads. Simply mix 1 cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of water in a small tub or sink. Use your hands to wet your dog’s feet as much as possible. Then, gently rub the mixture into their paws and leave it there like you would with a moisturizer until they are completely dry.
7.Shea Butter (dry dog paws home remedies)
The best and easiest way to keep your pup’s paws from getting dry is to use shea butter on their feet. Shea butter is a great product that will keep your dog’s paws moisturized and looking healthy. Use a small amount of it each day and rub it on the pads before bed. By doing this, their paws won’t dry out and crack.
8.Olive Oil
Olive oil is a wonderful, natural product that you can use to keep your dog’s paws from getting dry. To use olive oil on your pet, rub it into their paws until they are completely covered. Make sure that you do not miss any spots. After applying the olive oil to their feet and waiting for it to soak in, you can put some socks or booties on them.
The olive oil will remain moist, which will prevent your dog from licking off the olive oil before it has had time to soak in.
9.Omega Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are often called miracle oil. These acids can be applied to your dog’s paws several times a day. They will keep their paws moisturized and healthy, reducing the chances of dryness and cracking. Simply rub some oil into their feet and leave it on until it is scorched.
You can apply this every day or just when they start to start showing signs of drying out. It all depends on how dry your pet’s fur is starting to get.
10.Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another excellent home remedy that you can use to keep your dog’s feet soft and moisturized. It is also a perfect treatment for infections and allergies. To make this work, all you need to do is soak your dog’s feet in a mixture of warm water, apple cider vinegar, and rosemary for about 15 minutes.
After this, clean their paws with a washcloth. This will help kill any bacteria and dry skin that might have been there.
Even if your dog’s paws are not dry at the moment, it is still essential to take care of them before they start to crack and peel off. If you are unsure about how to keep your dog’s paws moisturized, remember to give them water and apply shea butter or apple cider vinegar regularly.
11.CBD and Hemp Oil
CBD oil is one of the most popular and hotly debated cannabinoids, as we’ve outlined in length. CBD oil extracted from hemp is legal in the United States. However, the legalities of cannabis have slowed down progress for those who want to study its medicinal benefits. It has little effect on dogs, which is why little research has been done on it.
However, more and more people are starting to realize just how helpful CBD oil can be for their dog’s health and their health too. According to some experts, one of the best things about CBD oil for dogs is that it helps keep their immune system healthy and strong.
12.Vitamin E oil
Vitamin E oil is another popular natural and one of the most recommended dry dog paws home remedies for dog’s paw pads. The skin will heal and moisturize much faster than it would if they were left untreated. But, you should not give your dog Vitamin E oil on their face because it can be harmful to them. Make sure that you are only giving them Vitamin E oil to help with their paws.
13.Dog paws dry Vaseline
You can also apply Vaseline to your dog’s feet to make this work. Just make sure to give it to your dog at least once a week and rub it into the pads. If you have a dog with dry paws, do this every day! With this product, you can keep your dog’s dry paws in good condition.
Keeping your dog’s paws moisturized is just another way to help prevent dry, cracked feet. You want to make sure that you do not let the fur become too long, as this will make the footpad dry and crack.
To keep your dog’s paws soft, you can also use baby oil to massage their feet every day. Always remember to take care of their feet so that this problem does not continue to happen again and again.
14.Extreme weather precautions
Extreme weather precautions are just as necessary as any other type of precaution. Extreme temperatures can cause your dog’s paws to not only dry out but can also cause problems for them, such as blisters and rashes. Here are some tips for extreme weather:
Do not allow your dog to walk through wet grass. In other words, it is the same situation that allows contact with any other type of fabric that may contact water. Wet grass can cause blisters and scratches to your dog’s feet very quickly.
Even the slightest amount of moisture on their paws will make it hard for them to walk properly and can cause them to fall over.
15.Avoid extreme temperatures daily
If you know that it will be really hot or cold outside, then it would be best if you did not allow your dog out at all. Instead, choose another time when the weather conditions are not as extreme in areas where you live and ensure they stay indoors during these times.
Other than that, it is vital to take them for walks and play outside a few times a week. Dogs benefit from this because they can relieve stress and exercise that they need to remain healthy. It is also an excellent way for you two to bond with each other by being active.
Conclusion
Dry, cracked paws can be very painful for your dog as they are such sensitive parts of their body. If you notice that your dog has dry and flaky paws, it would be best to take your furry friend to see a professional immediately to treat the problem before it gets worse.
You can do other ways to treat the problem as well, but it is important to use home remedies before you take your dog to see a veterinarian. By doing this, you will save time and money if there is nothing seriously wrong with your dog’s paws.
I am sure After using one of the above remedies for several months; you should notice a big difference in how your dog’s paws are looking and feeling.
If you have any questions or comments about dry and cracked dog paws, please leave them below.
Mark is an animal lover and a researcher. He has always been interested in understanding how animals think and behave. This passion led him to pursue a career in research, where he now studies the cognitive abilities of various species.
Mark’s work has taken him all over the world, and he has had the opportunity to study some of the most fascinating creatures on Earth. He is constantly amazed by the intelligence and ingenuity of animals, and he firmly believes that they are capable of so much more than we give them credit for.
