Why are my puppy’s paw pads cracked? | arlo.® Atlas
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
Cracked paw pads in puppies are often caused by dryness, rough ground, irritation from walking surfaces, or simple wear and tear. Less commonly, they can be linked to licking, allergies, infection or a foreign body. The main thing is to check the paws carefully and look at the whole picture, not just the cracks themselves.
Things To Check
1. See when the cracking seems worse, such as after walks, on hot paths, after muddy exercise or after grooming.
2. Look closely for redness, swelling, broken skin, scabs, discharge or any areas that seem hot or painful.
3. Check whether your puppy is licking, chewing or biting at the paws more than usual.
4. Think about the surfaces they walk on, including gravel, concrete, dry grass, sand, salt, ice or rough indoor flooring.
5. Compare all four paws to see whether the cracking is in one paw or across several pads.
6. Check for a thorn, grass seed, small cut or anything stuck between the toes.
7. Notice whether your puppy is still happy to walk, run and play, or whether they seem sore or reluctant.
Common Causes
Dry skin and normal wear are among the most common reasons puppy paw pads look cracked, especially if your puppy has been on hard or rough ground.
Frequent licking can also dry the pads further and make the skin look rough or split.
Contact irritation from hot pavements, de-icing salt, muddy ground, cleaning products or harsh grooming products can sometimes be involved.
In some puppies, allergies, minor skin infection, a trapped foreign body or a small injury may be contributing factors.
What To Do
Start by keeping the paws clean and dry after walks, then gently check them each day for any changes.
Reduce exposure to very rough or hot surfaces where you can, and keep walks sensible if the pads look sore.
If your puppy is licking their paws, try to notice when it happens and whether it follows outdoor time, boredom or excitement.
Take a photo every couple of days if you want to monitor whether the cracking is improving or getting worse.
If the pads look only mildly dry and your puppy is otherwise bright, monitoring and gentle routine care are often enough at first.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the cracks are deep, bleeding, swollen or painful, if there is discharge or a bad smell, or if your puppy is limping or seems unwell. It’s also sensible to get advice if the issue keeps coming back or doesn’t improve with gentle care.
Products That May Help
If your puppy’s paws are getting dirty, dry or irritated, a gentle routine with suitable pet care basics can help support regular cleaning and grooming at home.
Related Questions
Why is my puppy licking their paws so much?
How do I clean my puppy’s paws after a walk?
When should cracked paw pads be checked by a vet?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.