Written by Michaela Sabikova — Medically reviewed by Dr. Alex Crow
Updated September 28, 2022
The essentials:
- Hyperkeratosis shouldn’t be ignored; it is a condition that can cause your dog discomfort and can even be an indicator of more sinister underlying disease.
- There are things that an owner can do to help at home (quality balm could greatly reduce the symptoms), but if in doubt seek veterinary advice.
What is paw pad hyperkeratosis and how can I address the problem?
Paw pad hyperkeratosis or sometimes referred to as “Hairy dog feet” is a term that is bandied about in vet clinics that refers to a condition known as hyperkeratosis. The reason it has earned itself this name is because its effect mirrors the aesthetic of additional follicles or skin being present on the bottom of the paws, giving them a ‘hairy’ appearance.
By definition, hyperkeratosis is the abnormal production of keratin in a living being, or; in this case, your dog.
Like in their human owners, this keratin is responsible for generating hair, nails, and claws, among other things. It constitutes the outer layer of skin and can become troublesome in canines on their noses and paw pads.
Even though keratin is an essential component to the growth of an animal, it can sometimes take your furry friend on a path towards irritation or even pain. When a dog’s body is creating more than necessary, it causes paws to develop a thick exterior layer that hardens and cracks. The same is true in their nasal cavity, where overproduction can result in an interrupted sense of smell.
How does a dog get hyperkeratosis?
In several instances, hyperkeratosis is genetically passed down in a breed.
Certain types of dogs are more susceptible to the ailment, with a few of them including:
- Terriers (Irish and Bedlington),
- Golden Retrievers,
- Labradors,
- Bulldogs (English and French),
- Dogue de Bordeaux,
- Boxers.
For these breeds, and a handful of others, ‘hairy dog feet’ typically forms in the first year of your puppy’s life.
⇒ Even if you own a canine that is not predisposed to this condition, it can occur at any point and the cause is often unknown (idiopathic). Older dogs that have never dealt with it in the past can still be diagnosed as well.
Why is hyperkeratosis a problem that needs rectifying?
There are a plethora of reasons why hyperkeratosis warrants your attention, the first of which involves simply making your companion more comfortable. On an animal’s paw pads, too much keratin will cause hardened feet to scrape on the ground and develop calluses and blisters, no matter what surface they walk on.
A dog’s body cannot sustain healing affected paws consistently because the keratin production is occurring too quickly. When these outer layers are penetrated, it is much more difficult to stop potential infections.
Eradicating hyperkeratosis is also a beneficial to try and avoid lasting problems such as arthritis. Affected paws will eventually cause pain for your pooch, causing them to alter their walking and jogging style. This in turn can increase the pressure on their joints, thus resulting in issues later on down the line.
Nasal hyperkeratosis is obviously on a completely different part of the body, but as important all the same. The moisture on a dog’s muzzle is one of the most important components of a happy and healthy furry friend. Their sense of smell is what they lean on for the bulk of their decision-making. When keratin has built up on the nose, breathing can be interrupted enough to cause discomfort. Its presence also makes your dog more prone to infection, just like with hairy dog feet.
Even if you are not a hands on pet owner, and do not feel hyperkeratosis requires your attention, it cannot be stressed enough that it can be an indication of additional underlying conditions that are far more serious. Such as:
- For example, too much keratin may signal that a dog has zinc responsive dermatosis. If they are deficient in the absorption of zinc, they will almost assuredly have problems with their immune system or the functioning of the thyroid.
- Poor quality of food or excessive amounts of calcium in form of mineral supplements is something that needs to be also taken into account.
- Additionally, hairy dog feet may be the onset of pemphigus foliaceus. This blistering of the pads directly corresponds with an autoimmune disease.
- Leishmaniasis is yet another disease that can harshly manipulate the skin on a dog and has ties to hyperkeratosis.
Put simply, there is no shortage of troublesome outcomes to the condition if ignored.
How to treat hyperkeratosis
1. Veterinary approach
If you feel as though your dog’s hyperkeratosis has gotten beyond your control, or have an inkling there is more at play than just excessive skin growth, it is appropriate and justified to consult your veterinarian.
Only a veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis based on a histological examination of a tissue sample. Based on the severity and spread of the disease, the treatment consists not only in the use of quality balms but also in taking antibiotics and glucocorticoids.
2. Organic high quality ointment
That said, the majority of these types of cases can be resolved at home, while avoiding the headache of a pricey medical visit.
Natural balms are a wise preventative measure to utilize because they restore the smooth, healthy texture of both your dog’s pads and nose.
Our natural paw and nose balm for dogs delivers maximum relief with a cooling effect that can only be reached with its incorporation of vitamins E, F, and A. By bringing shea butter into the fold, it generates unparalleled nourishment that spikes your pooch’s quality of life right after application.
Moreover, hyperkeratosis of the muzzle or feet can be completely eliminated with routine use of the proactive balm. Since no additives are involved in its creation, it is safe for pets to consume without having to be concerned with nausea or digestive tract problems, should they lick it by accident. Over the counter recommendations are simply not equipped to provide adequate care. Options like Neosporin and petroleum jelly cause sickness and are nowhere near as efficient since they are primarily designed for human use.
Effective during all seasons of the year, Paws and Snout Premium Protection makes noses wet once more, and renders paw pad hyperkeratosis a thing of the past by procuring silky smooth pads. Additionally, cracks and lesions close due to its healing properties, putting back the smile and enthusiastic bark in your loving companion.
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FAQ
What is the growth on my dog’s paw pad?
While there are many possible causes of a growth on your dog’s paws, one possible explanation would be hyperkeratosis. However, dog’s can also develop lumps or tumours on their feet, so it’s best to get such a thing checked out by your vet.
Can I put vaseline on my dog’s paws?
Yes, it is fine to put Vaseline on your dog’s paws. This might act to lock in moisture and aid healing however it is no substitute for proper veterinary treatment.
Can I soak my dog’s paws in Epsom salt?
Epsom salt can be used to soak your dog’s paws in to help clean them. This won’t cure the condition but it may provide some relief to your dog and help prevent infection.
Can I trim my dog’s hyperkeratosis?
It isn’t recommended to trim your dog’s paws without visiting your veterinarian first. While trimming can help control the condition, it has to be done in the correct manner and it is often best performed by a veterinary professional.
Is hyperkeratosis in dogs painful?
Yes, hyperkeratosis can cause your dog pain – standing on the thickened skin is like us standing on a pebble! So the sooner you get your dog treated the better.
