Often during winter and summer, the harsh weather can damage your dog’s soft paws, and they get cracked.

Whenever the owner sees that his dog’s paws are red between the toes, it is definitely a sign of worriedness.

Such a condition is painful for the dog and a cause of other skin infections that may cause severe discomfort. These treatments are time-taking, so the owner should start its treatment as soon as he detects cracked paws.

What is Hyperkeratosis in dogs?

Hyperkeratosis and cracked paws are usually used as similar terms for dogs.

Hyperkeratosis is the condition in which the dog’s skin produces excess amounts of keratin, usually in the nose and paws of the dog.

It causes the skin to thicken and get stiff, leading to the cracking of the skin. The cracks are not only a source of discomfort but also give rise to several secondary infections.

When hyperkeratosis affects the paw pads, they thicken and give a rough appearance. The skin starts to crack, and in most cases, it causes bleeding. The skin between the toes becomes red, causing severe itchiness and pain to the dog.

How do I Heal my Dog’s cracked paws?

No matter how expensive creams or moisturizers you use, healing of the cracked paws is not an overnight process. It will take considerable time, mostly a week or less, depending on the paw’s condition.

Therefore, it is better to keep your dog’s paws soft to prevent any cracks or redness. You mostly see cracks in your dog’s paws during winter. When the dog walks on snow or cold floor, it causes dryness, which may causes cracks in the paws.

However, you can also use some home remedies to prevent the cracks in your dog’s paws during winter or summer.

Method:

Here is a simple technique to heal the cracks in your dog’s paws.

·         Gently clean the dog’s paws with warm water and a dog-safe soap.

·         Then, dry the paws with a towel thoroughly. However, don’t be too harsh while drying the feet as the cracks might hurt.

·         Apply an ointment or antibacterial cream to heal the cracks and redness.

·         Cover the wound with gauze so that the ointment can absorb efficiently. You can also cover the paws with a clean sock with paper tape around the ankles.

·         Apply the ointment daily and watch your dog after applying it.

·         Also, you should note whether there are signs of improvement or not.

Can I make a paw balm at home?

Although the market has several paw balms from many reputable companies, it is always a better idea to make one yourself.

You never know whether a certain will heal your dog paws or not. As making a paw balm is super-easy, one can make them at home and apply it to the dog’s paws.

Here’s a quick and simple recipe for making a paw balm.

Ingredients you need:

·         2 tablespoons shea butter

·         2 tablespoons olive oil

·         2 tablespoons coconut oil

·         2 tablespoons beeswax

·         A few drops of lavender oil

·         A glass bowl

Method:

·         In a glass bowl, add coconut oil, olive oil, shea butter, and beeswax and mix them.

·         The next step is to heat them. You can either use a microwave, which is a quick process, or the double boiler method.

·         When using the microwave, heat in intervals for 30 seconds. It is better to stir it on every interval as the beeswax takes the longest to melt.

·         In the double boiler method, boil some water in a pan and put the bowl containing the paw balm mixture. Make sure that the water in the pan does not get inside the bowl. Then, heat it at a medium flame and stir it regularly until the ingredients melt.

·         Add a few drops of lavender oil and mix it gently to combine all the ingredients.

·         You can also add a soothing scent or other essential oils with anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

·         Then, shift the mixture into a small container and let it solidify. Once it is solid, you can apply it on the dog’s paws.

How to apply:

To apply the home-made paw balm on your dog’s paws, put a small amount of it on your fingers and gently rub it on your dog’s paws.

However, you can also dip the dog’s paws in the container and then rub the balm evenly on the toes and cracked area.

Make sure to apply a thin layer and rub it gently to ensure maximum absorption. Most dogs also like the smell of the balm and lick it off as soon as you apply it. So, watch out for your dog and prevent it from licking it.

Can I use Vaseline on my dog’s paws?

Yes, Vaseline is also a good alternative if you don’t want to buy expensive paw balms. It moisturizes the paws during the winter season and heals the cracks. Vaseline also keeps the feet hydrated. However, it has a sticky and greasy texture which might catch dirt quickly and disturb your dog.

How to prevent dog’s paws from cracking?

You can protect cracks from causing discomfort to your dog by using some simple techniques.

Whenever going out during winters, make sure that your dog is wearing some winter socks or protective boots. The paw balms are also a better alternative, but we usually recommend using them at night. When the dog walks or plays, it usually wipes off. So, protective boots are the best option.

In summer, don’t leave your dog outside on the paved yard or driveway. When going out for a walk, choose the early morning or evening when it is not burning outside.

If you notice even the slightest signs of dryness on your dog’s paws, start using the paw balms. If you ignore the signs, it will cause severe damage, which will take more time to heal.

Conclusion:

Cracked dog paws and redness between your dog’s toes is always a disgusting feeling and causes itchiness and aggressiveness in your dog.

Therefore, treating the cracks as soon as they appear is essential to keep your dog’s paws soft in winter. This article contains the best and easy home remedies along with some tips to protect your dog’s paws and prevent redness between the toes during harsh weathers.