On its own, hyperkeratosis is not a medical emergency. The condition refers to the overproduction of keratin, the protein responsible for the formation of hair, skin, and nails. Hyperkeratosis manifests as cracked paw pads, a dry nose, or furry, almost frond-like growths on hairless parts of your dog’s body. Aside from being unsightly, hyperkeratosis generally isn’t cause for alarm, and many senior dogs develop this condition as part of bodily changes as they age.
1. Hyperkeratosis Exhibits Physical Symptoms
Like many common skin conditions that affect dogs, hyperkeratosis has obvious, tell-tale signs. For example, upon inspecting your dog’s feet, you may notice dry, cracked, or crusty paws. You may also notice that the skin on their paw pads feels harder than usual. Other symptoms could include:
- Trouble walking from cracked feet
- Carrying one leg while walking
- Fine growths sprouting from the paw pads
- A cracked, dry nose
- Crustiness where your dog’s joints meet (such as their elbows)
Hyperkeratosis doesn’t go away on its own, and it’s not curable. Your dog’s treatment plan will likely revolve around treating the symptoms, which could include applying balm to their paws or changing their diet.
2. Severe Hyperkeratosis Requires Prompt Veterinary Care
Many dogs with hyperkeratosis are unbothered by the condition’s symptoms and still partake in their daily activities without problems. However, you should schedule a prompt veterinary appointment if your dog:
- Exhibits signs of infection. Cracked paw pads leave the body open to bacteria that can cause fever, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Your dog’s vet will likely prescribe antibiotics and bandage any open sores until they heal.
- Has problems breathing. Hyperkeratosis can harden your dog’s nose, closing the nostrils and impeding their breathing patterns. Open sores on the nose are also vulnerable to infection, as it’s often difficult to keep these areas free of mucus and other debris.
- Has problems walking. Your dog may carry its leg to avoid pressing on a cracked paw pad. While many dogs can walk on three legs, doing this for too long not only ignores the problem, but it can also put excess strain on your dog’s joints.
It’s wise to err on the side of caution when it comes to your pet’s health. Taking prompt action regarding their well-being helps avoid veterinary emergencies and other common health problems that affect dogs.
3. Cracked Paws Don’t Always Equate Hyperkeratosis
There are many reasons for cracked paw pads aside from hyperkeratosis. For example, your dog may have cracked feet in response to an allergic reaction. Believe it or not, while chicken is a great source of protein, it’s also among one of the most common allergens for dogs. Laundry detergent, certain plants, and even fillers in dog food can trigger allergic reactions. A vet would run an allergy panel to determine whether something in your dog’s environment is causing cracked paws.
Another reason for cracked paw pads is extreme weather conditions. While your dog might trot happily on a hot sidewalk, the heat can burn their paws, leading to lesions, blisters, and open sores. For this reason, if you live in a hot climate, you may consider getting booties to protect your dog’s feet while outdoors.
Did you know that dogs need zinc? This metal is found in many “complete and balanced” dog food brands, and it offers the nutrients needed to support strong immune systems. Without adequate zinc, your dog’s body may struggle to heal minor injuries. Their skin may also feel rough and have lesions.
4. Some Breeds Are More Likely to Experience Hyperkeratosis
You could do everything possible to keep your dog healthy, and still, they may be predisposed to certain breed-specific health conditions. For example, Merck Veterinary Manual explains that Golden Retrievers are more likely to develop nasal parakeratosis, a condition that causes thick keratin to form on the top of their nose.
Breeds likely to develop hyperkeratosis and other related conditions include:
- Dogue de Bordeaux
- Boxers
- English Springer Spaniels
- Boston Terriers
- Pugs
- French Bulldogs
- Irish Terriers
As noted, senior dogs across all breeds can experience hyperkeratosis as part of aging. Monitoring their symptoms can help ensure they’re not suffering from an underlying condition that manifests as hyperkeratosis. These conditions can include hormonal imbalances, poor nutrition, and allergies.
5. Treatment Options Depend on the Condition’s Cause
A veterinarian will diagnose hyperkeratosis in your dog by conducting a physical examination. Depending on the condition’s severity, they may also take skin and hair samples to rule out fungal infections. From there, treatment will depend on what’s causing hyperkeratosis. For example, if your dog is allergic to something in their food, your vet may recommend changing brands. This may include switching from chicken-based food to salmon-based food.
As noted, hyperkeratosis is not curable. However, its symptoms are easily managed with a consistent regimen. Your veterinarian may prescribe balm or lotions that you apply to your dog’s nose, paws, and ear flaps to reduce further cracking. They may also prescribe over-the-counter pain relief medications if your dog exhibits signs of pain or has problems walking.
It’s scary to think about your dog suffering from any health condition—especially one that isn’t curable, like hyperkeratosis. Yet, you have many options for promoting their comfort and well-being. Most dogs with this condition live perfectly normal lives.
6. You Can Ensure Your Dog’s Comfort
There are many steps you can take beyond getting veterinary care for your dog after they’re diagnosed with hyperkeratosis. These include:
- Walking your dog on soft surfaces. If your dog has cracked or dry feet, avoid walking them on hot sidewalks. Try walking them in the grass, as this will put less pressure on their paw pads.
- Consistently applying paw balm. To get the most out of medically prescribed paw balm, be sure to read the application instructions. This may include applying the substance twice a day for maximum efficiency.
- Investing in protective footwear. The idea of your dog wearing booties may seem ridiculous, but in the long run, it can keep their paws safe from infection and further irritation.
Managing your dog’s hyperkeratosis is both easy and stress-free, given you have guidance from a veterinary professional. Always consult your dog’s healthcare team if you have concerns regarding their well-being.
