Help! Why are my Frenchie's paws rough and cracked?
We hear this question throughout the year. It’s common for frenchie paws to become dry, rough, or even cracked for a variety of reasons. And that can leave your canine friend compulsively nibbling and licking its paws for relief, often making the problem worse.
If you notice your frenchie has rough or dry paw pads, the best thing you can do is provide natural, moisturizing relief. All-natural ingredients are vital because frenchie's often lick their paws.
Your frenchie's paw pads play an essential role in their everyday life. They’re made specifically to protect canine paws against the elements. But that doesn’t mean they can stand up to everything.
Look for balms that contain all-natural ingredients such as:
Organic Cocoa Butter, Organic Shea Nut Butter, Grape Seed Oil, Organic Hempseed Oil, Candelilla Wax, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Sweet Almond Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Natural Vitamin E, Rosemary Extract
WHAT CAUSES DRY PAW PADS?
Most of the time, dry frenchie pads can be traced back to four environmental causes: hot pavement, wintery conditions, exposure to chemicals, and allergies.
Hot weather (and pavement)
During the summertime, the heat of the concrete can damage the skin on the bottom of your frenchie paws. To avoid blistered paws, walk your dog before the sun has a chance to heat the concrete, or after the sun has cooled down. If your frenchie loves running on the beach, sand and salt water are two other elements that can damage paw pads.
Cold weather and dry air
The cold air and low moisture that often results from heating our homes can dry out your frenchie paws. “Winter can be tough on our frenchie's feet, but good grooming and protecting the paws by using a balm or booties will go a long way to keeping your frenchie’s feet healthy.”
Exposure to irritating chemicals
In winter, roads and sidewalks may be covered with de-icing salts. In summer, gardens abound with fertilizers. Even household cleaners can contain questionable ingredients. Not only are some of those chemicals toxic to your frenchie's skin; they’re also ingested when your frenchie licks its paws. Remember: Make sure to wipe off your frenchie's paws after a walk to remove potentially harmful chemicals.
Allergies
Just like humans, many frenchie's suffer from environmental and food allergies. These allergies can make their paws itch. And then the scratching and nibbling starts, which can cause cracks, open wounds, and sometimes infections.
If you regularly moisturize your frenchie's paws without seeing any improvement, it’s time to call your vet. Certain types of liver disease, dermatologic issues, and metabolic issues could be at play.
