Why Dog Paws Get Injured

Dog paws need care.

From salt used to clear the roads of ice in the winter, to hot pavement in the summer, there are several factors that can cause your dog's sore paws. Diseases, infections, ground hazards and dog nails are just a handful of reasons why your dog's paws are cracked and bleeding. Steering clear of these hazards and getting your dog proper treatment will help him on the road to recovery.

Snow and Ice

Ice can hurt dog paws.

Salt used to clear roads and sidewalks of ice can damage a dog's paws. Even chemical de-icers can irritate a dog's paw, making them cracked, blistered and sore. It is important to wash your furry friend's paws with warm water after a romp outside in the snow. Apply some petroleum jelly after you wash the paws to speed healing. Concerned dog owners can even use specially-designed dog boots to keep their pet's feet protected from snow, salt and de-icers.

Pavement Hazards

Beware of street hazards.

If you live in the city and walk your dog on a regular basis, steer clear of scorching pavement in the summer, broken glass, rough pot holes and crumbling sidewalks. Not only can these dangers cause burns, cuts and bruising to your dog's paws, they are a danger to you.

Hiking and Running

Tough terrain

Taking your dog on hikes or long runs is a great way to give him much needed exercise, however, it is important to start slowly to give your pet's paws a chance to adjust to the changing terrain. Be leery of rough rocks and other debris that might irritate his paws. Remember, you are wearing running or hiking shoes, but your dog is wearing nothing to protect his feet.

Nails

Long nails spell trouble.

You should not worry about an active dog's nails growing too long. Dogs that do not get enough exercise have nails that have not been filed down through natural wear and tear. These dogs are prone to ingrown and snagged nails that can cause painful paws. It is important to keep your dog's nails trimmed and neat using specially-designed nail clippers.

Infections and Diseases

Sore Paws

Yeast infections, similar to athlete's foot in humans, can cause a dog's paws to itch and bleed. Great Danes, dobermans, shepherds and poodles are prone to zinc deficiencies that can cause paws to become sore. Nasodigital hyperkeratosis, in which the rough outer covering of the foot pad grows excessively and cracks, is another culprit. Auto-immune diseases, in which the immune system mistakes skin cells for invading pathogens and attacks them, can be another cause of sore paws. Veterinarians can diagnose these diseases and prescribe treatments to help your dog's paws feel better.

References

• BellaOnline: Winter Paw Care for Dogs
• DogPro: How to Treat Dog Paw Sores and Injuries
• Dog Grooming: Paw Conditions