Keratosis paws are often referred to as “hairy dog paws” because the paws take on a distinctly furry appearance.
In fact, what you’re seeing is an overgrowth of a tough, fibrous protein called keratin, which resembles fur but is actually rough, hard, and extremely uncomfortable for dogs.
Keratin gives the epithelial cells of the skin, hair and nails strength and elasticity, but in some cases the body produces too much keratin, which can lead to keratosis. When this excess keratin is overproduced, it forms a hard, crusty layer of fur-like protrusions on the nose and soles of the feet.
Hyperkeratosis has varying degrees of severity, but the most aggressive form can cause cracking of the pads, bleeding, and infection.
Some breeds have a genetic predisposition to keratosis of the feet, such as the Golden Retriever, Laboratory, Dogue de Bordeaux, and some terriers. Babies with hereditary keratosis usually show signs of “hairy dog paws” by their first birthday.
Nonhereditary keratosis can be idiopathic (meaning that the cause cannot be determined) or it can be a symptom of a disease. Dogs with idiopathic hyperkeratosis don’t usually develop the problem until they’re older, but dogs experiencing “hairy dog paws” as a symptom of the disease can develop at any age. .
The following diseases are known to cause foot hyperkeratosis:
- Leishmaniasis This is a skin disease spread by biting flies that is characterized by skin lesions and can also cause overproduction of keratin.
- dogs in pain zinc-reactive dermatitis You may not be able to absorb zinc properly and develop hyperkeratosis as a symptom.
- foliate pemphigus It causes pustules and scabs on the skin and thickening and cracking of the footpads.
- canine distempera highly contagious and potentially life-threatening virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems, also causes hyperkeratosis of the paws in some dogs.
If you notice any changes in your dog’s normally soft, smooth paws, make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out disease and prevent symptoms from progressing. Hyperkeratosis cannot be cured, but it can be managed.
Left alone, hard hair-like growths and cracks can make your dog’s paws very sensitive, especially when walking on rough, hard, hot, or cold surfaces. Some dogs experience severe pain, reluctance to walk, or even inability to walk, which reduces their quality of life.
Treatment and long-term maintenance are essential to keep your dog standing.
After examining your dog to rule out any of the above ailments, your veterinarian will use medical scissors or a Dremel tool to trim off any excess dead skin. This procedure should only be attempted by professionals. Trimming is painless if done correctly, but you can accidentally nick the delicate paws under the outer skin with an untrained hand.
Preventing overgrowth can make your dog walk more comfortably, but regrowth is rapid, so maintenance trimming should be done every few months. Some vets may recommend soaking or steaming the feet to soften excess tissue and ease discomfort during trimming.
To soothe and moisturize your dog’s sore paws, apply a soothing balm enriched with pet-safe essential oils and butters. Natural Dog Company Paw Souser A unique blend of all-natural ingredients such as cajeupte essential oil, calendula extract, rosemary extract, jojoba oil, hemp seed oil, and cocoa butter, just to name a few.
Each nutritional component is designed to provide effective and safe healing. From the antiseptic properties of cajeput essential oil to the germ-repellent moisturizing properties of jojoba oil, this is an effective way to reduce pup sore paws. Plus, choose from can or stick applicators for easy application.
all the time Natural Dog Company Products It does not contain harmful ingredients, so you don’t have to worry about your dog getting sick. The effect is fast and long-lasting just by applying it daily.
With your care and attention, you can manage corneal keratosis and give your dog the chance to live their best life free of pain and discomfort.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Information on this website is not a substitute for a one-to-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional.
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