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My puppy has rough paw pads. Is it normal? What if moisturizer fails?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Multi-Colored Standard Poodle | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 29 days old | 53 lbs

My almost 11 month old puppy has really rough paw pads. Is it normal for them to look like that? They don't bleed and they certainly don't seem to bother him, and I have used a dog safe, dog formula pad moisturizer but that seemed to make it worse.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on December 30th, 2018

Phoenix's paw pads may benefit from a change in diet. Royal Canin diets are fortified with Omega 3 fatty acids which are good for the coat and skin. They make a diet for sensitive skin (you may need to look online for the product) and this one would be a good option. It will take about 4 weeks to see if they improve with a new diet.
You could also try a product such as Baely's Paw Shield. This balm may help to heal the cracked skin.
Lastly, avoid rough surfaces and dry the paws well when they get wet.
If the skin starts looking red, bleeding, scabbing or if he seems bothered, have hime seen by his vet. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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