Cracked, Crusty Paw Pads: Understanding Hyperkeratosis in Dogs

In this guide

Hyperkeratosis is a mouthful of a word for a fairly simple problem: the skin, most often on the paw pads or nose, produces excess keratin and thickens, sometimes into rough, crusty, almost feather like growths.

What causes it

• Idiopathic (breed related) hyperkeratosis, common in Cocker Spaniels, Labradors, and Bulldogs, with no other underlying disease
• Old age, where pads simply thicken over the years
• Zinc responsive dermatosis, more common in Huskies and other northern breeds
• Underlying illness such as canine distemper, which classically causes hardened pads and nose (sometimes called hard pad disease), though this is now less common where vaccination is widespread
• Autoimmune skin conditions in rarer cases

What it looks like

• Thickened, dry, rough patches on the paw pads or the top of the nose
• Cracking or fissures, which can be painful and prone to infection
• In advanced cases, hair like or feathery growths of excess keratin on the pads

Managing it at home

For simple, breed related hyperkeratosis, regular pad care makes the biggest difference. Soak the paws in warm water for a few minutes to soften the tissue, then gently file down thickened areas with a soft nail file or pumice stone. Follow with a vet approved paw balm or moisturiser to keep the pads supple, and repeat a few times a week.

When to see a vet

• Deep cracks that bleed or look infected
• Sudden onset in a dog that has never had thickened pads before, which warrants ruling out an underlying illness
• Pads becoming so hard the dog limps or avoids walking
• Any accompanying symptoms such as nasal discharge, coughing, or lethargy, especially in an unvaccinated dog, which should be checked promptly

Common Questions

Q: Does hyperkeratosis hurt? A: Usually not, unless the thickened skin develops deep cracks, which can be genuinely painful and prone to infection if left unmanaged.

Q: Can I use a human moisturiser on my dog's paws? A: Better to stick with a vet approved paw balm, since some human moisturisers contain fragrances or ingredients that can irritate a dog's skin or cause problems if licked off.

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