Dog Foot Pad Cracks: Causes and Solutions Explained

Understanding the Causes of Split Pads in Dogs:

Firstly, Cuts or Abrasions:

When a dog's paw gets cut or scraped, it's crucial to apply a bandage to stop the bleeding and promptly seek veterinary care to clean the wound and prevent infection.

Secondly, SelfLicking:

Chemical substances frequently sprayed in gardens or on floors can cause discomfort to a dog's skin, leading them to lick their paws. Although these chemicals may not directly harm the pads, they can trigger excessive licking. In such cases, quickly remove any chemicals from the dog's paws and use a foot wash foam to alleviate discomfort caused by the chemicals.

Thirdly, Hyperkeratosis:

This condition involves the rapid growth of skin keratin, leading to dryness and cracking. Keratin is a hard tissue on the skin that makes the paw different from the rest of the dog's skin. In most cases, applying a moisturizing cream that removes excess keratin, such as dog paw care cream, can help.

Fourthly, Infections:

Malassezia or fungal infections on the paw can cause splitting. Commonly, dogs with pyoderma (a bacterial skin infection) experience an overgrowth of bacteria, weakening the skin's resistance, which then allows Malassezia to thrive. The infected areas are usually skin folds, lips, and hairy paw areas. Treatment involves using antifungal medications like ketoconazole, clotrimazole, nystatin, or miconazole, or oral itraconazole. Clinical baths can show significant improvement after about four weeks. Additionally, controlling secondary infections is essential, as most Malassezia infections are associated with external parasitic skin diseases. Regular external deworming and preventive measures are crucial. If bacterial infections are present, oral antibiotics like cefalexin or firstgeneration cephalosporins can be used safely, giving pet owners peace of mind.

Fifthly, Nutritional Deficiencies:

Feeding your dog homemade food might lead to nutritional deficiencies. A lack of certain minerals and vitamins, such as zinc, can cause paw splitting. To supplement zinc, you can give your dog metacin zinc (23mg/kg) or zinc sulfate (23mg/kg) orally, mixed with food, once daily. Continue this treatment for 36 months.