Does your dog have hard, thickened skin, especially on its nose or paws? If so, they could be showing signs of hyperkeratosis, a very common skin condition in dogs. Hyperkeratosis in dogs can lead to discomfort but there's good news! Understanding the causes and symptoms can lead to effective treatment options. Continue reading to learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for managing canine hyperkeratosis.

What is hyperkeratosis in dogs?

Hyperkeratosis in dogs is a condition where the skin cells on the dog’s nose and paw pads grow excessively and fail to shed properly. This abnormal process results in an accumulation of keratin, a key skin and hair component, specifically in these areas.

This condition means the skin on your dog's nose (nasal hyperkeratosis) and paw pads (digital hyperkeratosis) can become unusually hard and thick. It is noticeable when these areas appear dry and feel much firmer than normal. The technical term for this is nasodigital hyperkeratosis.

While hyperkeratosis is not always painful, it can lead to discomfort for your pet. In advanced cases, the affected area might develop cracked skin, sores, or even bleed, which can be painful and may lead to secondary infections. These complications can also make your dog more prone to infections in the affected skin areas.

nasal hyperkeratosis in dogs

What are the causes of hyperkeratosis?

Hyperkeratosis can develop in dogs for a variety of reasons, and understanding these can help you better manage your pet's health. Here are some of the main causes and risk factors:

  1. Congenital: In some cases, hyperkeratosis is congenital, meaning dogs are born with this condition. This is often related to their genetic makeup and is more common in certain dog breeds. Cocker spaniels, boxers, English and French bulldogs, Boston terriers, beagles, and Basset hounds are predisposed.
  2. Aging: Older dogs are prone to hyperkeratosis. With age, the characteristics of this condition can change, often becoming more pronounced on the top of the dog’s nose and around the edges of the paw pads.
  3. Systemic and Dermatologic Disorders: Certain health conditions can lead to hyperkeratosis. For example, canine distemper virus infection can result in hyperkeratosis.
  4. Idiopathic Disease: Sometimes, hyperkeratosis occurs without any clear underlying cause, such as immune-mediated, infectious, hereditary, or anatomical issues. This is known as idiopathic hyperkeratosis, and its exact cause is not well understood.

It's important to note that while hyperkeratosis can be a standalone condition, it can also be an indicator of other underlying health issues in your dog. Therefore, regular check-ups with your veterinarian are important to ensure proper diagnosis and management of any health concerns.

Symptoms of hyperkeratosis in dogs

Recognizing the symptoms is key to ensuring your dog gets the care they need. The severity of this condition can vary, but here are some common signs to look out for:

  • Changes to the Nose: One of the first signs of hyperkeratosis is changes to the dog’s nose. You might notice that the top of your dog's nose (dorsal nasal planum) becomes firmer than usual.
  • Paw Pad Alterations: Dog paw hyperkeratosis affects the edges of the main pads and/or the accessory pads (on the wrists and ankles) can show changes. Initially, there might be slight firmness, but as the condition progresses, the pads can become significantly harder.
  • Dryness and Crusting: As keratin accumulates, the nose and paw pads become dry. In severe cases, you might see hyperkeratotic fronding (a rough, leaf-like appearance) and crusting in these areas.
  • Fissures, Erosions, and Ulcers: The affected skin areas might develop fissures (deep cracks), erosions, or ulcers, which can be painful for your dog.
  • Pain and Discomfort: Depending on the severity, your dog may experience varying levels of pain associated with these skin changes.
  • Secondary Infections: In some cases, hyperkeratosis can lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. These infections can cause symptoms like pigmentary changes, discharge, tissue proliferation, and additional crusting.

It’s important to monitor your dog for these symptoms and discuss with your veterinarian if you suspect hyperkeratosis. Clinical signs may be more noticeable in the winter months due to reduced humidity in the air.

What are the treatment options for canine hyperkeratosis?

The treatment options for hyperkeratosis in dogs will depend on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Here are some common methods used to manage this condition:

  1. Topical Applications: Topical treatments like ointments, creams, or balms can help soften and moisturize the affected areas. These products may contain ingredients like salicylic acid, urea, or propylene glycol to help break down excessive keratin and improve skin hydration.
  2. Alternative Topical Treatments: Other options include petroleum jelly, 50% propylene glycol, salicylic acid, ichthammol ointment, or tretinoin gel. These can help soften the affected areas and facilitate keratin removal.
  3. Dietary Supplements: Fatty acid supplements (omega fatty acids - fish oil) are often recommended to help improve skin and coat health in dogs with hyperkeratosis.
  4. Paw Soaking: Soaking your dog’s feet in warm water and/or propylene glycol can help soften the skin, making it easier to remove excess keratin. This also provides relief for sore or painful areas.
  5. Antimicrobial and Steroid Ointments: Ointments containing antimicrobials and steroids can be effective.
  6. Systemic Antibiotics: For severe infections, systemic antibiotics may be necessary. Your veterinarian may perform a skin culture and sensitivity test to choose the correct antibiotic.

FAQs

How can I treat my hyperkeratosis in my dog's nose at home?

While it's important to consult with your veterinarian for proper treatment, there are some steps you can take at home to help manage hyperkeratosis in your dog's nose:
- Keep the affected area clean and dry.
- Apply a moisturizing ointment recommended by your veterinarian to soften the skin.
- Soak your dog's nose in warm water with equal parts of propylene glycol every 12 hours.
- Trim any excess keratin using pet-safe clippers or scissors.
- Using OXY-pads® (salicylic acid) twice weekly can help.
- Apply Vaseline® (petroleum jelly) can help prevent painful fissures and cracking, especially in the winter months.

Can hyperkeratosis be cured in dogs?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for hyperkeratosis in dogs. It can be managed and treated, but it may require lifelong care and monitoring.

In conclusion, hyperkeratosis in dogs can be a challenging condition to manage, but with proper treatment and care, your dog can still live a happy and healthy life. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and early detection of symptoms are crucial for successful management. By understanding the underlying causes, recognizing the symptoms, and following an appropriate treatment plan, you can help improve your dog's quality of life and minimize any discomfort associated with this condition. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. So, if you notice any changes in your dog's nose or paw pads, don't hesitate to seek veterinary care. Your furry friend will thank you for it! Keep them healthy and happy always!