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My dog's paws are cracked and red. How can I prevent paw pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 8 months old | 55 lbs

Can I prevent these? Do these cause my pet pain to walk? The spots are between his fingers (?). I've attached photos. There's never been any blood, although it was a slightly brighter red earlier. His paws themselves also have some visible cracks (maybe 1 -2 out of the 16 finger paw pads). It's hot and humid where I live, although I always test the concrete and go early/late in the day for walks. There are also sometimes spikey burrs from plants on the ground, though they're more rare.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 4th, 2020

Hello. The only way to prevent these is to use booties on Jack's paws, but if he is not licking his feet, nor does he seem uncomfortable or limps, then I do not think he needs the booties. I would be washing his feet every day, either with a dilute Povidone Iodine or Chlorhexidine solution. Wipe his feet with the solution, then dry with a soft towel without rinsing. Continue to test or avoid hot concrete or asphalt surfaces & I think Jack should do just fine. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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