Cracked paw pads: causes, care and when to worry
Dry, rough or split pads are common, especially on Indian roads. What causes them and how to help them heal.
In this guide
Your dog's paw pads are tough, but they take a lot of wear: hot roads, rough concrete, wet floors, cleaning chemicals. Over time, they can get dry, rough and cracked. Mild dryness is easy to manage at home; deep cracks need a vet.
Common causes
- Hot surfaces in summer. See summer paw care.
- Rough terrain: concrete, gravel, construction areas
- Wet paws that stay damp in the monsoon, then dry out
- Dry winter air and heaters
- Floor cleaners and chemicals on floors and roads
- Licking, which can dry and irritate the skin
- Age: senior dogs often have drier pads
- Health conditions, such as allergies, some skin diseases or nutritional issues
How to tell how bad it is
Mild: pads feel rough or look dry, with small, shallow lines. Your dog walks normally.
Moderate: visible cracks, some flaking, your dog licks the paws a lot.
Needs a vet: deep cracks, bleeding, swelling, pus, a bad smell, limping, or cracks that don't improve in a week or two.
Home care for dry, mildly cracked pads
- Clean. Wipe the paws with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grit.
- Dry fully, especially between the toes.
- Apply a paw balm. Rub a pea-sized amount of Cracked Paw Repair Balm into each pad. Our balm comes in a 15 g tin with a Kesar Chandan scent.
- Do it at bedtime, so it soaks in overnight while your dog rests.
- Distract for a few minutes with a chew or cuddle so they don't lick it straight off.
Repeat daily until the pads feel softer, then a few times a week to maintain.
Prevent cracks from coming back
- Walk on grass or shaded paths when you can.
- Avoid the hottest hours in summer.
- Wipe and dry paws after every walk.
- Keep the fur between pads trimmed. See nail and paw grooming.
- Rinse paws after walks where roads may have been treated with chemicals.
- Use balm regularly, even when pads look fine.
Why is my dog licking their paws?
Paw licking can be a cause or a sign of paw trouble. Read why dogs lick their paws to find out what's behind it.
Questions pet parents ask
Can I put coconut oil or Vaseline on my dog's paws? +
Many dogs lick these off, and they can make paws slippery. A balm made for pet paws is a better choice. Ask your vet if you're unsure.
How long do cracked paw pads take to heal? +
Mild dryness often improves within a week or two of daily care. If cracks are deep, bleeding or not improving, see your vet.
When should I take my dog to the vet for cracked paws? +
If you see bleeding, deep cracks, swelling, pus, a bad smell or limping, or if home care doesn't help.
- #cracked paws
- #dry paw pads
- #paw balm
- #dog paw care
This guide is general information for pet parents, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, injured or you're unsure, please talk to your vet.
