Dry, Cracked Dog Paws: Causes and a Simple Paw Care Routine
Your dog's paws carry them everywhere — across scorching summer roads, rough stone, wet monsoon streets and cold winter floors. Over time, paw pads can become dry, rough and cracked. The good news: a few minutes of paw care each week makes a big difference.
What healthy paw pads look like
Healthy pads are slightly rough (that's their grip) but supple, with no deep cracks, bleeding, swelling or redness between the toes.
Common causes of dry, cracked paws in India
- Hot surfaces — summer asphalt and pavements can get hot enough to burn pads.
- Rough terrain — gravel, stone and construction areas.
- Dry winter air and cold floors.
- Floor cleaners and chemicals that paws pick up at home.
- Frequent wetting — washing paws after every walk without drying them well.
- Allergies — constant paw licking can be a sign; ask your vet.
The 7-second pavement test
Before a summer walk, press the back of your hand on the road for 7 seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Walk early in the morning or after sunset.
A weekly paw care routine
- Check the paws after walks for cuts, thorns, ticks or redness between the toes.
- Clean gently with a damp cloth and lukewarm water.
- Dry thoroughly, including between the toes — trapped moisture can cause irritation.
- Trim the fur between the pads so it doesn't collect dirt or cause slipping.
- Moisturise with a paw balm. Apply a thin layer and massage it into the pads.
- Keep nails trimmed so your dog walks comfortably.
Choosing a paw balm
A good paw balm softens and nourishes the pads without leaving them slippery. Pawbara offers two:
- Shea Butter Paw Balm — rich and deeply moisturising for rough, cracked pads.
- Goat Milk Paw Balm — a soft, nourishing option for everyday paw care.
Tip: apply at bedtime or before a nap, and distract your dog with a chew for a few minutes so the balm can absorb instead of being licked off.
When paw problems need a vet
See your vet if you notice bleeding, deep cracks, limping, swelling, pus, a bad smell, or your dog licking or chewing their paws constantly. These can point to injury, infection or allergies.
Paw care by season
- Summer: avoid hot roads, walk at cooler times, moisturise after walks.
- Monsoon: wipe and dry paws after every walk; check for ticks between the toes.
- Winter: moisturise more often to prevent dryness.
Find both balms in our Dry & Cracked Paws collection.
Pawbara — Parenting Has Paws.