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Why are my dog's paw pads peeling after running? What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 30 lbs

My dog’s paw pads have started to peel. I take him to run on a rubber track at a football field, and I’m positive it wasn’t too hot. We’ve also run on that track for a year now with no problems. Could he just be running too hard and too often? Should I just have him take it easy, or bring him to the vet? Also, how can I prevent this?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 25th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Hammy and for providing pictures, they are very helpful. I see what you mean about his paw pads peeling. It may be too hot for him. To test if it's too hot, put the back of your hand on the track. If you can't hold it there for at least five seconds, it's too hot. It could also be he is running too hard and too often. For now, I would rest him. Allow his paw pads to heal before taking him back to running. I'd apply Musher's Secret to his paws to help then heal. The Musher's Secret, which is a pad balm, can help protect his pads as well when they heal. You can find it online. I hope this helps!

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