Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.
Is it normal for a dog to have a bleeding elbow callus?
I’m a veterinarian and dog owner. I’ve dealt with problem elbow calluses in my patients as well as in my own dogs. I will provide you with clear guidance on how to heal and prevent elbow callus problems.
What Are Dog Elbow Calluses?
A callus is a thickened patch of skin that forms over a dog’s pressure points. These patches act as a natural defense mechanism, shielding the underlying tissue from continuous rubbing and pressure.
The areas most prone to developing calluses are those with less protective hair, fat, and muscle. The elbows, chest, and certain parts of the hind legs are common places for callus formation.
Calluses can affect dogs of all sizes and breeds, but they tend to be more noticeable in larger and giant breed dogs with short fur. While they are rough and unsightly, these calluses usually don’t cause any problems. But sometimes they become excessively dry, itchy, and even bleeding and infected.
9 Steps to Heal & Prevent Your Dog’s Dry, Bleeding Elbows
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The first thing you should do is have your veterinarian examine your dog. During your dog’s veterinary visit, discuss a long-term plan to manage your dog’s calluses. Discuss the specific products you plan to use.
Remember, it is especially important to consult a veterinarian first if your dog has severe bleeding, swelling, or signs of infection.
| Recommendation | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Follow Your Vet’s Advice | Use the drugs and products your vet recommends. Inappropriate home remedies can be harmful and delay proper treatment. |
| 2. Increase Humidity | Use a humidifier in your dog’s primary living area to prevent excessive dryness of the skin. |
| 3. Soft Bedding | Encourage your dog to rest on soft bedding. Look for cooling gel beds made with bolsters and memory foam. |
| 4. Keep Things Clean | Wash your dog’s bed at least twice a week to reduce dirt and bacteria that may transfer to the skin. Wash any elbow coverings every 1-2 days. |
| 5. Cool Environment | Keep the home environment cooler if your dog prefers lying on tile floors to cool off. Even pointing a fan toward your dog’s resting area can help. |
| 6. Clean the Skin | Douxo mousse with antibacterial chlorhexidine can be applied to elbow skin to disinfect it. |
| 7. Douxo Calm Gel | Douxo Calm Gel is a therapeutic spray that helps seal the outer surface of the skin. Apply it once or twice a day. |
| 8. Moisturize | Apply non-toxic, heavy moisturizers like Dermoscent Bio Balm. Use at least once daily and clean off any residue before reapplying. |
| 9. Elbow Pads | Use elbow pads if your dog tends to lie on hard surfaces. These can prevent elbow issues and hygromas. |
Risk Factors
Any dog can develop elbow dermatitis and pyoderma. But a few risk factors make the condition more likely:
- Large breed dogs (Mastiff, Great Dane, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, etc.)
- Lying on hard surfaces
- Obesity
- Arthritis/decreased mobility
- Dry environment
- Hypothyroidism
- Allergic skin disease
Read More from NPHQ Veterinarian
When to See a Vet
Not all dog calluses require attention from a veterinarian. However, you should see a vet If you see any of the following changes in the elbow callus area
- Redness
- Swelling
- Oozing
- Pus
- Pain
It’s a good idea to visit the vet early when you notice these signs. They can help your dog before the calluses become a long-lasting problem.
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Treating Infected Elbows
If your vet suspects your dog’s elbow callus has a bacterial infection, they may recommend running a culture. The results will help them choose the most effective bacteria to clear the infection.
Topical wound cleaners (1), antibiotic ointments and temporary wound dressings are also commonly used. You will need to make sure your dog doesn’t lick the affected skin. You might need to have them wear an E-collar cone for a short time.
Untreated Infections Can Spread
Dogs tend to lick their inflamed skin and rest on less-than-clean surfaces. Over time, this can lead to the skin harboring atypical bacteria that are difficult to treat.
Chronic elbow infections can persist on a low level, decreasing a dog’s quality of life. Sometimes, deep infections can spread throughout the dog’s body and make them very ill.
Surgery is not recommended very often. It’s hard to get the elbow to heal completely due to constant pressure on the area.
How Long Does It Take Infected Elbows to Heal?
The healing time depends on the severity and duration of the elbow issues in your dog:
- Superficial irritations and skin infections usually heal in 7-14 days with proper care.
- Deep infections require veterinary care and could take weeks to months to heal.
Elbow Callus vs. Hygroma in Dogs
An elbow callus and a hygroma are not the same, although some dogs may have both conditions. A hygroma is a fluid-filled cyst that often forms over a dog’s elbow point. These cysts are prone to injury and can be uncomfortable for the dog when lying on them.
Uncomplicated hygromas don’t cause problems. But some can develop inflammation or bacterial infections, occasionally breaking open and becoming persistent sores. These are difficult to treat due to the constant pressure on the area. (2)
The good news is that uncomplicated hygromas can resolve without invasive treatment. Providing plenty of soft bedding or using elbow protectors for dogs who prefer firmer surfaces can help hygromas heal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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