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Why are my dog's elbows dry and scabbed? How can I treat them?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 1 year and 9 months old | 100 lbs

My dog has extremely dry and scabbed up elbows. What can I do to help get rid of this? He has hexachor-k wipes for a different rash she gets on his stomach would this help?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Elva Ma DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 1st, 2018

Hello, and thank you for your question. Large breed dogs commonly develop calluses on their elbows as they age. It may be that you are seeing the formation of these calluses. However, if he is scratching or licking at the elbows, or if you are noticing redness or discharge in the area, then it may be an infection that warrants a vet visit and medication. If it is only dry and flaky and Rosco is unbothered, you can try applying a barrier cream such as vaseline to protect the area from trauma, and also provide him with plenty of soft bedding to rest his elbows on when he is sleeping. This may help to prevent trauma to the elbows as they gradually form a callus. I hope this helps, and that Rosco is well!

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