Youve noticed your dog’s nose to be excessively hard or crusty, or maybe the dog’s paw pads seem unusually sensitive or have a hard crust on them.
Hyperkeratosis can have several causes. Some dog breeds like Retrievers and Terriers are prone to this condition genetically.
Other causes can be medical illnesses like Canine Distemper, a viral infection, or Leishmaniasis, a parasitic infection.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for hyperkeratosis in dogs, and the best you can do for your pooch is to manage the condition and make your dog comfortable.
As part of the overall dog paw care routine, you can also somewhat prevent this condition.
Hyperkeratosis can also occur as a symptom of one of the following underlying issues:
There is no exact treatment regimen for hyperkeratosis, which leaves many devoted dog owners feeling rather helpless. Before you throw your paws up in defeat, there are 2 breakthrough products proven to soothe, heal and prevent the formation of hyperkeratosis.
You’ll see the best results, however, if you distract your pup’s licker long enough for the moisturizer to work its magic. Try enticing your pup with a favorite toy or long-lasting treat while you apply small amounts of shea butter to their dry skin. You can safely use it on their nose, elbows, and paw pads.
Before you purchase the first balm you find, you need to know which ingredients are safe and which you want to stay away from. Shea butter, olive oil, beeswax, coconut oil, and avocado oil are all safe for dogs. You want to avoid products that list toxic substances like zinc oxide, calamine lotion, calcipotriene, and lidocaine as ingredients.
People use shea butter to moisturize and soften dry skin, and it also works on dogs. Not every moisturizing product is safe for dogs, but shea butter is an all-natural compound that doesn’t harm pets. Pure, organic shea butter can be applied directly to a dog’s paws and nose. Most curious pups will try and lick the mysterious substance off, and as long as they don’t consume large quantities, you don’t need to worry about them getting sick.
If you’ve ever been to a sauna, you know how soft and smooth your skin can feel after sitting in a room full of steam. Your dog’s skin will benefit in similar ways to a sauna experience. Finding a dog-friendly spa will be difficult, but you can treat your pooch to a DIY spa experience right in your bathroom. All you have to do is run the hot water in the shower until the bathroom is nice and steamy. Leave the exhaust fan off, and let your pup relax in the steam-filled room. The moisture in the air will penetrate your dog’s skin and soften the hardened keratin. Doing this on a regular basis will keep your dog’s skin supple and comfortable.
Having your dog wear dog boots or socks won’t cure their hyperkeratosis, but it will prevent it from getting worse. Choose a type of doggy footwear that is comfortable and protects sensitive paws. A heavy-duty boot will be best for outdoor adventures, and when your pup is walking around inside, they should wear comfortable socks with rubber grips on the bottom to keep them from slipping.
How Is Hyperkeratosis Treated in Dogs?
You cannot cure your dogs hyperkeratosis, but you can keep the condition under control.
Your vet may trim back extra hairs on particularly hairy dog feet as a way to improve comfort. He may also suggest applying a cream to your dogs paws regularly.
FAQ
How can I treat my dogs hyperkeratosis at home?
What can I give my dog with hyperkeratosis?
Can I put coconut oil on my dogs feet?
If you find that your pup’s paws are dry or cracked, you can use coconut oil to help soothe and heal them. Make sure to rub the coconut oil thoroughly into your dog’s paws, or your dog will mistake this treatment for a snack and lick off all of the oil!
How do you treat hyperkeratosis naturally?
- Keep baths and showers short. …
- Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. …
- Gently exfoliate skin with keratosis pilaris once a week. …
- Moisturize your skin. …
- Avoid shaving or waxing skin with keratosis pilaris.