Why Are My Dogs Paw Pads So Rough?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Most of the time, dry dog pads can be traced back to four environmental causes:

hot pavement, wintery conditions, exposure to chemicals, and allergies

. If none of these are present, an underlying medical issue could be to blame. Walking on hot, dry concrete can cause rough and cracked paw pads.

How can I soften my dogs paws naturally?


Coconut oil is great as a moisturizer and can bring relief to your dog’s dry and cracked pads

. Rub a small amount on the pads at night, preferably when your dog is asleep. Thankfully, coconut oil is safe for your dog to ingest, but it might cause your dog to lick its paws excessively.

Can I moisturize my dogs paw pads?

Should You Moisturize Your Dog’s Paws?

You should moisturize your dog’s paw pads if they are cracked, peeling, or too dry

. Avoid using human lotions or moisturizers and stick with products made specifically for canine paws.

Is Vaseline good for dogs paws?

Paw balm or petroleum jelly-based products

keep your dog’s paws safe and moisturized

. If boots don’t feel right for your best friend, try Vaseline or a paw balm such as Musher’s Secret.

How do you make paw moisturizer?

  1. 2 oz. ( approx. 2 tbsp.) olive, sunflower, or sweet almond oil.
  2. 2 oz. ( approx. 2 tbsp.) coconut oil.
  3. 1 oz. ( approx. 1 tbsp.) shea butter.
  4. 4 tsp. beeswax.

Can you use Vaseline on dogs?


Technically no, vaseline is not toxic to your dog

. It is also usually not the best choice as your dog can lick it off their skin or paws. If your pup ingests enough they might get an upset stomach, which can lead to vomiting or diarrhea if they ingest enough.

How can I moisturize my dog’s paws at home?

  1. Shea Butter. Rubbing this into paw pads can soothe, smooth, and hydrate skin. …
  2. Vitamin E. This may already be a part of your dog’s diet, but it’s also available as a cream. …
  3. Beeswax. …
  4. All-natural paw balms.

Is coconut oil good for dogs paws?

Dogs can suffer from sore paws just from walking, and running on different surfaces.

Coconut oil can help protect their paws from getting sore and irritated

. It not only moisturizes the skin on the paws, but it can act as a protective balm, and create a barrier between your dog’s paws, and any irritants.

Can I put coconut oil on my dogs cracked paws?

If you find that your pup’s paws are dry or cracked,

you can use coconut oil to help soothe and heal them

. Make sure to rub the coconut oil thoroughly into your dog’s paws, or your dog will mistake this treatment for a snack and lick off all of the oil!

Can I put olive oil on my dogs paws?

Olive oil is a kitchen cupboard staple that does double duty for dogs. For an external treatment,

apply a small amount to your dog’s dry paws, noses, and ears

. Be sure to rub it in completely, and remember, a little goes a long way! It’s also effective as part of your dog’s diet.

What is the best paw balm for dogs?

  • Best for Winter: Musher’s Secret Paw Protection Wax. …
  • Best for Paw and Nose: Bag Balm Paw and Nose Moisturizer. …
  • Best for Itchy Paws: Dermapaw Dog Skin and Paw Treatment. …
  • Best Budget: Pet Head Oatmeal Natural Paw Butter. …
  • Best Natural: Paw Nectar Organic Paw Wax. …
  • Best CBD Balm: Veritas Farms Full Spectrum CBD Paw Rescue.

What can I use as paw balm?

The ice, snow, and salt from pavements can do a number on your dog’s paws. A homemade balm—of natural ingredients like

shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax

—is the perfect ointment to keep his paw pads healthy this winter.

Is paw balm necessary?


Dogs with health conditions, such as diabetes or hyperkeratosis, may benefit from paw balms

as well as these diseases can make feet sore, rough, and cracked. Paw balm is a great way of helping those sore paw pads to heal as well as protect them from further damage.

How do you apply Vaseline to a dog’s paw?

Tips for using Vaseline on your dog’s cracked and dry paws


Only use a thin layer of Vaseline

— Remember: A little Vaseline goes a long way. When applying a coat of Vaseline to your dog’s paw pads, avoid globbing it on since your pup might track it all over your house.

Can you put chapstick on a dog’s paws?

Walking on ice, snow and salt can cause irritation on your pet’s paws in wintry conditions. Lip Balm Rescue:

Coat your pets’ paw pads with clear lip balm before heading out the door

. The balm will serve as a barrier to safeguard his sensitive tootsies.

Can you put coconut oil on dogs?

How to use coconut oil on dogs.

Coconut oil is generally safe for dogs to eat in small amounts or have applied to their skin or fur

. When it comes to selecting a brand, virgin coconut oil is best, as most of coconut oil’s benefits have been observed with this type.

Emily Lee
Author
Emily Lee
Emily Lee is a freelance writer and artist based in New York City. She’s an accomplished writer with a deep passion for the arts, and brings a unique perspective to the world of entertainment. Emily has written about art, entertainment, and pop culture.