Why do my dog’s cracked paw pads smell bad? | arlo.® Atlas
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
Cracked paw pads that smell bad are often down to dirt, moisture, trapped debris or irritation building up in the cracks. In some cases, the smell can also be linked to infection or a yeast overgrowth, so it’s worth checking the paws carefully rather than assuming it’s just normal wear and tear.
What you can usually do at home is look for anything obvious, keep the paws clean and dry, and watch whether the smell is coming from one pad or several. If the cracking is deep, your dog is sore, or the area looks inflamed, a vet check is sensible.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the smell is strongest after walks, muddy outings, or time on wet ground.
2. Look closely for redness, swelling, broken skin, scabs, discharge or dark staining in the cracks.
3. Feel whether the pads are warmer than usual or whether your dog pulls away when you touch them.
4. Check for something lodged in the pad, such as grit, a splinter, grass seed or other debris.
5. Notice if your dog is licking, chewing or limping, as this can make smell and cracking worse.
6. Compare all four paws to see if the problem is just one pad or a more general issue.
7. Think about recent changes such as new surfaces, more exercise, grooming, washing, or weather that’s been very wet or very dry.
Common Causes
The most common reason is simple build-up in the cracks. Dirt, mud, moisture and skin debris can collect there and start to smell if the area isn’t drying properly.
Dry, overworked pads can also crack and develop a smell if bacteria or yeast settle into the damaged skin. This can be more likely if your dog licks the area or if the paws stay damp after walks.
Less commonly, the smell may be linked to a skin infection, an allergy-related problem, or another cause of ongoing irritation that’s making the pads break down.
What To Do
Rinse the paws gently with lukewarm water if they’re muddy or dirty, then dry them well, including between the toes and around the cracked areas. Avoid scrubbing hard, as that can make the skin more sore.
Keep an eye on whether the smell improves after cleaning and drying, or whether it keeps coming back. If the problem seems linked to a particular walk, surface or weather condition, that clue can be helpful.
Try to reduce licking and chewing, because that can keep the area moist and slow down normal healing. If your dog is coming indoors with very wet or muddy paws, a steadier clean-and-dry routine after exercise may help with day-to-day management.
For cracks that keep reopening, or if the paw pads look increasingly sore, it’s sensible to speak to your vet rather than waiting it out.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the smell is strong or persistent, the cracking is deep, there’s redness, swelling, discharge or bleeding, or your dog seems painful, lame or unusually bothered by the paw.
You should also get advice if the problem keeps returning, only affects one paw, or doesn’t improve with gentle cleaning and drying.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s paw pads are cracked and smelly, a gentle paw care routine can help with cleaning, drying and day-to-day maintenance between walks.
Related Questions
Why does my dog keep licking cracked paw pads?
Should I clean my dog’s paws after every walk?
When should I worry about a bad smell from my dog’s paws?
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.