How to treat Dry or Cracked Paws in Dogs with natural Home Remedies

If you’ve ever caught your dog excessively licking their paws, limping a bit, or if their paw pads feel rough or look cracked don’t panic, you’re not the only one. Dry or cracked paws in dogs are normal, particularly in extreme weather or on rough surfaces. Fortunately, with a bit of TLC and some simple home remedies, you can calm your dog’s paws and avoid further irritation.

What Causes Dry or Cracked Paws in Dogs?

Just as humans develop dry skin, dogs can also develop dry or cracked paw pads. These are some of the common reasons:

• Hot pavement or cold, icy sidewalks
• Chemical exposure (like road salt, cleaning products, or lawn chemicals)
• Allergies (food or environmental)
• Excessive licking or chewing
• Infections or yeast buildup
• Lack of moisture or hydration

Symptoms of Cracked or Dry Dog Paws

Not sure if your dog’s paws are dry or cracked? Watch for these signs:

• Rough or flaky paw pads
• Redness or inflammation
• Cracks or small cuts
• Limping or favoring one paw
• Constant licking or biting at paws
• Sensitivity to touch

Natural Home Remedies for Dry or Cracked Paws in Dogs

Here are easy, safe, and vet-approved remedies you can try at home to help heal and protect your pup’s paws.

Coconut Oil Paw Rub

• Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer with antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• Warm a small amount in your hands and gently massage into your dog’s paw pads.
• Apply before bedtime to let it soak in overnight.
• Use 2–3 times weekly or daily if the paws are severely dry.

Olive Oil or Shea Butter

• like coconut oil, olive oil, and shea butter, work wonders.
• Apply a thin layer to your dog’s clean paws.
• Let them relax to avoid licking it off right away.
• Avoid petroleum-based products unless vet-recommended.

Oatmeal Paw Soak

• Oatmeal helps soothe itchy and irritated paws.
• Mix 1 cup of plain oatmeal in warm water in a tub or bowl.
• Let your dog soak their paws for 5–10 minutes.
• Gently dry and apply coconut oil after.

Aloe Vera Gel

• If your dog’s paws are cracked or mildly inflamed, aloe vera can be cooling and healing.
• Use only pure aloe vera gel (no added chemicals or alcohol).
• Apply a small amount to affected areas and let it air dry.

Vitamin E Oil

• Vitamin E supports skin repair and adds moisture.
• Break open a vitamin E capsule and apply the oil directly to the paw pads.
• Massage in gently once or twice a day.

How to Prevent Dry or Cracked Paws

1. Preventing future paw problems is just as important as healing current ones.
2. Wipe paws after walks, especially during winter or summer.
3. Use dog booties in extreme heat or cold.
4. Moisturize regularly with a dog-safe balm or oil.
5. Check for allergens in food or surroundings.
6. Keep nails trimmed and fur around paws tidy to reduce irritation.

When to See a Vet

While home remedies help with minor dryness or cracks, consult your vet if:

• There’s bleeding, pus, or open wounds
• Cracks are deep or painful
• Your dog won’t stop licking or limping
• Signs of infection are present (swelling, redness, odor)