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Dog Elbow Calluses
If your pup is suffering from elbow calluses, rest assured, he’s not alone
Elbow callus normal, Spencer (Boxer)
What are elbow calluses?
Calluses are part of what is referred to as pressure sores. Calluses are hairless areas of thickened skin over a bony area. Each time your dog lies down on a hard surface, the pressure causes the skin to thicken in order to protect the bone and dog elbow calluses begin to form.We usually see calluses on the outside of the elbow, but we also see them on the hip and hock.
Heavy dogs are predisposed to elbow calluses since the heavier a dog is the more pressure exerted. Senior dogs that have medical problems are likely to develop calluses on their elbows due to their inactivity.
Spencer developed calluses on both elbows, hips and hocks because he was lying on the cold floor tiles day and night due to the hot summer temperatures on Mallorca/Spain.
Hip callus infected, Spencer Boxer
When a callus is infected
Normal dog elbow calluses are only a cosmetic concern and pose no health risk to your furry friend. But if they are not observed and cared for they can crack and bleed an get infected. In some cases, a fluid-filled area at the point of one elbow may form, a condition known as elbow hygroma.
While your dogs calluses can be easily treated at home, it is important to know when to see your vet. In case a dog caluss starts bleeding, ulcerated and open area, you have to see a vet inmediately.
Hygromas and Elbow calluses can be prevented by providing soft bedding, especially beds made of orthopedic foam.
