My dog has hyperkeratosis on his paws. What are the best remedies?

Hi there and thank you for using Pet Coach! I recommend using a product called BioBalm by Dermoscent. Bayer makes this product and you can find this easily online. For the long hair like pieces, I usually recommend having these trimmed (there are no nerves going to these pieces and it is painless to have these trimmed back). I would recommend having this done at your veterinarian's clinic where they can trim them there using clippers or a dremmel file. Once these have been made shorter, the BioBalm can be applied 3 times daily. It may take several months for this balm to work well but I have seen cases such as Allie's dramatically improve. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.

For some dogs, developing hyperkeratosis is a matter of genes: Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Dogues de Bordeaux, Irish and Bedlington Terriers are all known to develop this condition. When hyperkeratosis develops as a result of inheritance, it generally occurs in the first year of a dog’s life. In contrast, idiopathic hyperkeratosis develops for unknown reasons, generally occurs in older pets, over the age ten. Aside from inherited or idiopathic occurrences, hyperkeratosis can occur as a symptom of one of these following problems: Leishmaniasis: Caused by a parasite frequently carried by sandflies. Canine Distemper: This virus is relatively rare now, due to vaccinations given to puppies. When distemper strikes, it can cause all sorts of symptoms, among them hyperkeratosis, typically on the nose. Zinc Responsive Dermatosis: Hyperkeratosis can occur as a result of zinc responsive dermatosis, a skin disease that occurs when dogs do not properly absorb zinc. Pemphigus Foliaceus: One of the most common autoimmune skin diseases diagnosed in cats and dogs, it causes pustules and hyperkeratosis to form on the paws. This disease can be diagnosed with a biopsy, and is treatable with immunosuppressive drugs. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for hyperkeratosis. That said, the condition can be managed -- the treatment goal is to reduce symptoms, by softening and removing the hardened skin on paws and muzzles. The most important first step of treatment is to determine if another disease is causing hyperkeratosis as a symptom, and begin the treatment process for that disease. To treat the hyperkeratosis directly, bring pets in for frequent vet appointments, where the vet can carefully trim and cut away the excess keratin. If your vet and you both feel comfortable with the idea, it’s possible that your vet can train you on the proper process for this puppy pedicure. Other treatments involve wet wraps, soaks in propylene glycol, and other topical solutions.

It does look like hyperkeratosis, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. If it seems like it is bothering Oscar, I would have him examined by the vet to see if there is a reason that it is occurring and why it is uncomfortable. There are also some prescription ointments that can be used to reduce the excess growth.

Absolutely. Hyperkeratosis can be extremely uncomfortable, particularly for giant breed dogs that place massive amounts of weight on the affected regions. Speak to your vet about the use of pain management.

Although I think Pro Plan is a great diet, you may try Royal Canin as it tends to be a little better for skin. You could also supplement an additional Omega 3 fatty acid (make sure it's made for dogs). Lastly, look for a product like Baely's Paw Shield or you could also use Coconut oil. Rub it into the areas once to twice daily. Do not allow Otis to lick the product off as it will not help if he does. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

The growth is hyperkeratosis. It isn't a problem, you can apply coconut oil and use a nail file to try to file it back a little. Try to prevent licking, you may need to have them wear an e-collar for a couple of weeks. https://www.petcarerx.com/article/hyperkeratosis-in-dogs-and-cats/2803

Hello. We need to know why Max's feet are dry & cracked. This could indicate a bacterial or even a fungal cause. Until you can have him evaluated, you can wash his feet in a skin antiseptic like Hibiclens ( available at all pharmacies ), dry well & then apply a very light coating of Vaseline. Try to do this at least 1-2 times a day. If no response within a couple of weeks, do see your veterinarian for further recommendations. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.