Cuts on a dog’s paw pads can be caused by various factors, including sharp objects, rough surfaces and extreme temperatures. Common culprits include broken glass, metal shards, thorns, and hot pavements. Additionally, paw pad injuries can result from overexertion on rough terrain or even from chemicals like ice melt.
Glass, rocks, metal, thorns, and even overgrown nails can pierce or cut paw pads.
Excessive running or playing on concrete, gravel, or other abrasive surfaces can cause wear and tear or cuts.
Hot pavement, sand, or even chemical burns from cleaning products can damage paw pads.
Dry, cracked paw pads can result from nutritional deficiencies (like zinc or protein), or medical conditions like liver disease, allergies, or autoimmune diseases.
Extreme heat or cold, or exposure to chemicals like de-icing salt, can dry out and crack paw pads, making them more vulnerable to injury.
While mosquito bites are usually minor, fire ants or ground wasps can cause painful stings or bites.
Thorns, sticks, pebbles, or other debris can become embedded in the paw pad, leading to cuts or punctures.
In extreme cold, paw pads can be susceptible to frostbite.
When nails are too long, they can curl around and puncture the paw pad.
Fungal or bacterial infections can cause itching, swelling, and redness, leading to chewing and licking, which can further damage the paw pads and cause cracks.