Why Are My Dog's Paws So Rough?

You might be wondering, “Why are my dog’s paws so rough?” It’s one of the most-asked questions of pet owners, and we face this kind of problem all year round. But, worry not, my friend.

Having rough pads is entirely a natural protective mechanism to protect your dog’s feet from any rocks or edgy things. That can cause harm to his paws. It’s pretty standard for dog paws to become rough or even cracked for various reasons. And, these paws act like your dog’s shoes. Sounds interesting, right? Additionally, your canine friend’s paw pads play a vital role as they cushion his steps and protect his paws from extreme weather and rough surface.

However, rough pads can be a matter of concern for some dog lovers. For this reason, if you see your puppy constantly licking its feet for relief, it’s time to check it out instantly.

It’s quite normal, as well, if your dog hangs around outside of the home a lot, he is likely to have rough pads. Whereas an indoor dog typically has soft and tender cushions all the time.

So, if your dog has rough paw pads, you can provide him with a natural, moisturizing solution. As all the natural elements are essential, even if your pup licks its paws, he won’t have tummy trouble.

That’s cool! Just sit back and keep on reading. This post will let you know some solutions for your canine friend’s rough paw pads.

So, without further ado, let’s get started.

Handy Hint: to read more about dogs, visit our other article about clean dog ears with vinegar [here] and cleaning dog teeth with baking soda [here].

Home Remedies for Rough Dog Paws

To be a bit rough is natural for your dog’s paws. But you may be concerned about your little friend’s paws if it feels incredibly rough. You should also check if there is any crack or bleeding on your puppy’s paws, as it indicates that they are suffering from severe dryness.

Here are some effective home remedies that you can try out to help repair your puppy’s dry paws:

You can first make your little buddy wear booties that will protect its paws from the rough surface when they are outside. Seeing dogs wearing booties is adorable. Isn’t it?

Apart from this, you can apply shea butter, well-known for its natural moisturizing properties, to heal and hydrate your dog’s cracked paws. As it is not toxic, it is not harmful at all for your little friend.

In addition to it, you can apply Cannabidiol, also known as CBD oil. This Soothing Balm is loaded with 100% natural ingredients, including shea butter and coconut oil, highly essential moisturizing elements, as we mentioned earlier.

Besides, you can add frankincense, Niaouli, and lavender oils, which are highly effective and work like magic to treat your puppy’s dry skin.

Webbed Dog Feet vs Non-Webbed

There are three basic types of dog paws. That’s surprising. Here we go. You need to know why your dog’s paws are so rough.

Cat’s Feet: Cat’s feet mean small and round shaped dog paws. Well, don’t get confused with the phrase “cat’s feet.” This type of dog paws is great for its stability and endurance. That’s why the traditionally used working dogs are bred to have this kind of paw.

Hare Feet: Hare feet paws are typically longer and smoother in appearance. This type of paws includes two longer central toes that can easily dive into action with great speed. Greyhound and Whippet are the two examples of this paw type.

Webbed Feet: Webbed feet dogs are especially breeding to emphasize this feature. Most of the dogs with webbed feet are using for retrieving or hunting. Aside from this, the webbing between the toes helps them swim confidently. So, don’t forget to take this four-legged webbed feet companion with you while you go for a swim. That’s awesome. Some common dog breeds with webbed feet include Labrador Retriever, Newfoundland, Otterhound, Standard Poodle, and Portuguese Water Dog.

How to Moisturize Dog Paws

Tensed about your dog’s paws for being dry and cracked? These simple instructions can get you rid of it:

You can buy dog footpad moisturizer for your pups from pet suppliers.

Additionally, using some common homemade items, you can recover moisture. Such as, you can apply petroleum jelly or coconut oil onto footpads and, of course, use enough so that the skin can absorb it well. Then massage gently as you do for your heels.

Besides, using household items like warm water with enough iodine can make foot soaks.

A bag of chamomile tea with a foot soak can also soothe the irritation of your puppy’s paws. Another preventive measure is- you can apply commercial waxes to your dog’s footpads to reduce the potential dryness.

Vaseline on Dog’s Paws

If your best friend doesn’t feel comfy with its boots, you can apply vaseline or a balm, such as Musher’s Secret. The vaseline will help keep the dog’s footpads hydrated.

You can also use vaseline or paw balm on your dogs as we humans do when they go through an experience of dry skin, rashes, or cuts in their busy and active life.

Though vaseline isn’t harmful to your dog, it cannot also be the best solution. Licking it off their paws, your puppy might suffer from some stomach trouble if swallowed enough. It would be better to consult your veterinarian if your puppy has any rash or skin irritation.

Aside from this, try out coconut oil for cracked dog paws. Your canine friend would surely love the flavor of this oil, as well.

Cracked Dog Paw Pad Treatment

Suppose you see your dog’s paws are cracking. In that case, you should wash them off instantly with a wound and skincare solution to alleviate irritations. Then apply an antimicrobial hydrogel to promote healing and bandage the affected area to avoid any further wound to the paw pads.

But, if the cracks aren’t bleeding, you can use home remedies to treat them. At first, clean out the paw pads with a washcloth, warm water, and antibacterial soap. Make sure the paws are dry, and then apply and rub vaseline or petroleum jelly well.

Putting socks on your puppy’s paws, you can also help him walk more comfortably when the cracks or cuts are healing. To further protect your dog’s paws and speed up healing, you can also avoid walking on rough ground and hot surfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it normal for a dog’s paws to be rough?

It’s quite normal for a dog’s paws to be rough, but once paws become dry, it’s difficult for them to heal. Make sure that your dog’s paws are smooth to touch and free from all abrasions.

2. Can I put coconut oil on dog paws?

You can put coconut oil on your dog’s paws to protect its paws from getting irritated. Not only does it moisturize the paws, but it can also be a protective balm for its paws.

3. Can I wash my dog’s paws every day?

You don’t need to wash your dog’s paws every day, but try to wash them at least once every three months. There is no specific guideline for how often you should wash your dog’s paws. However, check your dog’s paws once a week.

Final Words

Though Cracked or cut paws are extremely painful, providing your little friend with the necessary treatments can work like magic to heal your puppy’s cracked paws. We hope these above tips help you prevent your canine friend’s dry paws, for sure.

So, why are my dog’s paws so rough? You need to be very careful about the injuries and sensitivities of your little buddy’s paws. Always you should check his footpads regularly and moisturize them to keep the pads healthy.

And, last but not least, always try to let your little friend know that you will always be there to care for him.