What is hyperkeratosis in a dog?
Does your dog’s nose or paw pads feel rough, cracked, or overly thickened? It might be hyperkeratosis, a common but often overlooked skin condition that can make walking uncomfortable and lead to infections if not managed properly. Though not life-threatening, it requires consistent care to keep your pup comfortable.
So, what exactly is hyperkeratosis, and how can you help your furry friend? In this guide, we’ll break down the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery process, ensuring you have all the tools to keep your dog's skin healthy.
Hyperkeratosis is a condition where the skin produces excessive keratin, leading to thickened, crusty, or hardened areas — most commonly on the nose (nasal hyperkeratosis) or paw pads. In some cases, it can also appear on the ears and other parts of the body.
This condition is more frequently seen in older dogs, specific breeds, and dogs with underlying health conditions. While there is no cure, proper care and management can prevent discomfort and secondary complications.
Symptoms of hyperkeratosis in dogs
Hyperkeratosis can develop gradually, so early signs might be subtle. However, as the condition progresses, you may notice:
- Thick, dry, and crusty skin on the nose or paw pads
- Cracked, brittle areas that may flake or break off
- Overgrown keratin resembling hair-like growths
- Pain or discomfort when walking (severe cases)
- Bleeding or secondary infections due to excessive cracking
- Loss of moisture, making the affected area rough and rigid
Since hyperkeratosis symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions (like infections or autoimmune diseases), keeping a close eye on changes in your dog’s skin can help determine when it’s time to seek veterinary advice.
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Causes of hyperkeratosis in dogs
Hyperkeratosis is usually a chronic condition, meaning it doesn’t just appear overnight. There are several possible causes:
- Genetics: Some breeds are more prone to hyperkeratosis, including Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and Irish Terriers.
- Aging: Senior dogs are more likely to develop hyperkeratosis due to natural skin changes over time.
- Canine distemper virus: Puppies or unvaccinated dogs that contract distemper may later develop hyperkeratosis as a side effect.
- Zinc deficiency: Zinc-responsive dermatosis can lead to dry, cracked skin and overgrowth of keratin.
- Autoimmune disorders: Diseases like pemphigus can trigger excessive keratin production.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to harsh weather (cold, heat, or rough terrain) can worsen symptoms.
If you notice your dog showing signs of hyperkeratosis, it’s always best to consult a vet to rule out underlying health issues.
Diagnosis of hyperkeratosis in dogs
A vet can diagnose hyperkeratosis through a physical examination and, in some cases, additional tests. Here’s what you can expect:
- Visual inspection: The vet will assess the affected areas to determine if they align with common hyperkeratosis symptoms.
- Medical history review: If your dog is a breed prone to the condition or has had previous skin issues, this can help with diagnosis.
- Biopsy or skin scraping: In some cases, the vet may take a small sample to rule out infections, autoimmune diseases, or other skin disorders.
- Blood tests: If an underlying condition like zinc deficiency or an autoimmune disease is suspected, further blood work may be required.
Since hyperkeratosis conditions are often chronic, a proper diagnosis can help determine the best management plan for your pup.
Treatment for hyperkeratosis in dogs
While hyperkeratosis has no cure, regular care can help minimize discomfort and prevent secondary issues.
Home care for mild cases
- Moisturizing balms: Using a vet-approved balm or coconut oil can help soften and hydrate rough areas.
- Regular soaking: Soaking your dog’s paws or nose in warm water can loosen excess keratin.
- Gentle exfoliation: A soft cloth or dog-safe exfoliant can remove flaky skin without causing irritation.
Veterinary treatments for severe cases
- Trimming of excess keratin: A vet may carefully trim away overgrown keratin to prevent discomfort.
- Prescription ointments or medications: If secondary infections occur, antibiotics or antifungal treatments may be prescribed.
- Zinc supplements: If a zinc deficiency is causing hyperkeratosis, supplements may help improve symptoms.
- Paw protectors: Dog booties can help prevent further irritation, especially on rough or hot surfaces.
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Recovery and prevention
Since hyperkeratosis is a lifelong condition, recovery focuses on managing symptoms rather than curing the condition. Here’s how to keep your dog comfortable:
- Maintain a moisturizing routine: Regularly apply a balm to your dog’s dry paws and noses.
- Keep your dog’s environment paw-friendly: Avoid walking on hot pavement or rough surfaces that can worsen symptoms.
- Monitor for infections: If you notice redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your vet immediately.
- Schedule routine checkups: Regular vet visits help catch potential complications early.
With the right care, your dog can live a happy, comfortable life despite hyperkeratosis!
Ear Margin Hyperkeratosis Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Golden Retriever
Four Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Weird Crusty Ears
What is the crusty stuff growing all around his ears s as Nd how should I treat it?
Sept. 27, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I am sorry for the delay, this platform is not set up for urgent emails.
It is difficult to tell from your picture, without being able to see the area, but that may be a viral or fungal problem, or a bacterial infection or a parasite. It would be best to have him seen by a veterinarian, as they can remove the hair if needed, examine the area and see what might be going on, and get treatment for him.
Oct. 10, 2020
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Chiweenie
9 mo
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Custy Ear
What could I get to help his ear
Sept. 26, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
Dogs can get ear infection, and the bacteria or yeast is quite specific and needs specific medication to treat. Since I cannot see your dog, It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine your pet, see what might be going on, and get treatment for them if needed.
Oct. 17, 2020
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German Shepherd
Seven Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Redness
She has been getting crusty I. Her ears with excessive head shaking. We clean the are with banix but it just goes right back to being this way.
Sept. 25, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this venue is not set up for urgent emails.
Her ears look terribly infected, and are probably very painful. She probably needs different medications, topical and oral antibiotics. It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get any testing or treatment taken care of that might be needed.
Oct. 21, 2020
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Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier
herman
2 Years
68 found this helpful
68 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Ear Crust
my dog has some sort of crusty on the edge of his eat and on the top side of his ears there is also some hair loss he doesnt seem to be in any pain though sometimes hell flinch and yelp if i touch it
March 14, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
68 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. There are many causes for hair loss and crusting, including parasites, bacterial or fungal infection, or various conditions that can occur. If he flinches when you touch the area, it is probably bothering him, and it would be a good idea to have him examined by a veterinarian. They'll be able to look at the problem, determine what might be causing it, and get any treatment needed for you so that his problem resolves.
March 14, 2018
that whole paragraphs just says "see a vet" thanks for telling me what I already new but wasting my time.
March 25, 2018
Rich W.
Well, Rich sure is a rude prick. Hey, Rich, if you have all the answers, then why are you bothering to read the site? Dr. King is nice enough to take time out of her schedule to help strangers on the internet, and you’re a prick to her because you didn’t like the answer? Screw you, dude. 🙄
March 26, 2018
Dr. S.
My dog seems to have this she's rat terrier I put aquaphor on it or any moisturizing cream it softens overnight and comes off, just need to keep her ears moist and no more issues! Coconut oil works well
July 26, 2018
Melinda W.
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Basenji
Patriot
2 Years
17 found this helpful
17 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Ear Crust
Ear Flaking
So, I was reading your article on hyperkeratosis. My dog seems to have it on the tips of his ear. I had adopted him with it, and have no prior knowledge to how long it’s beeen going on, though it takes up maybe .5-1inch up the tip of his right ear, and beginning to develop on his left. I was wondering if I was use a medics led shampoo with benzoyl peroxide would those reduce the current peopblem on his ear. I understand it is not a cureable Solution, but he has no infections of sorts. Just a crust. Thanks for your help. It doesn’t seem to cause him any discomfort if I put pressures on it, and generally doesn’t bother him. Though, as a pet owner it bothers me.
Jan. 19, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
17 Recommendations
Thank you for your email.
It would be a good idea to have Patriot examined by your veterinarein to determine if there is any other condition going on that might be causing the crust on his ears. Many dogs with hyperkeratosis respond well to medicated shampoos with keratolytic and keratoplastic properties. Examples would be tar, sulphur, salicylic acid, selenium sulphide, or benzoyl peroxide. Your veterinarian will be able to prescribe you this as it is not something that can be found over the counter. Close clipping of the hair on the affected area is also helpful. This will prevent matting of the hair and accumulation of seborrhea within the fur. It will not necessarily prevent the condition from developing but it may slow or stop its progression. Other treatments will be administered depending on your dog’s needs. They may send you home with an ointment or spray to apply to the ears. If there is a yeast or bacterial overgrowth, it is possible oral medications will also be sent home for you to administer over a course of time. If your veterinarian discovers there is an underlying cause to your dog’s symptoms, they will administer therapies in accordance to that illness. I hope that everything goes well for him.
Jan. 19, 2018
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