Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 11/29/2011

Question
Hi, I have a 1 year old Shiba Inu and I had notice today that his pads are soft with a very slight shade of pink towards the middle, they use to be rough and all black. He doesn't seem to be licking or biting at his paws so should I be concerned about this? if so, what should I do? He has been biting other places of his body sometimes leaving bare spots is it okay to give him certain allergy medication? Please help me, thank you!

Answer
Although allergies and excessive abrasions from a rough surface commonly cause the footpads to be come softer than normal, there are some diseases that can affect the pads of dogs.  These are usually related to a zinc deficiency in the diet.  Other depigmenting conditions such as lupus need to be considered.  Your vet can do a biopsy and tell for sure. As far as the allergies, there are medications to help the itching...both systemic as well as topical sprays.  Check with your vet for the proper reason for this problem and for them to prescribe medication to help.