hi my dads friend got a 9 month old boxer dog puppy off a breeder who could not keep him he has red  sore pads  (feet) and they are gone soft from being on damp ground can you recommend anything to harden them again

my dad said he used to use methelated spirits on our dobe storm

any advice

georgina

I would wash the sore paws in diluted Hibiscrub (available from most chemists - costs approx. £3 for 500ml). This should kill off any bacteria. Nizoral shampoo (human anti dandruff shampoo) can also be used to kill off any fungal problems. The feet should then heal naturally themselves and will harden by themselves.

If this doesn't work (several applications may be needed) then I would suggest a visit to the vet. I wouldn't apply methylated spirit to feet that are already sore.

Once the feet have healed it is important to keep them dry (dry them after walks in the rain etc) to prevent the problem reoccuring.

Ailsa

It could also be that the Boxer has an allergy to something.
Some Boxers can be quite allergy prone.

As previously advised hibiscrub v.good.
But do take to vet as it maybe something that needs medication.

Probably red and sore from standing on urine soaked bedding/flooring. Wash and treat with Hibiscrub and then keep dry ; talcum powder may help.

I had a foster Boxer who's pads stayed soft and puppy like from being locked up in a crate all day and never having to really use them to toughen them up.  They were chapped (for lack of a better term...sorry) in some places and I used bag balm to clear those spots up.  Eventually, with normal dog walking and play they toughened up on their own.  Similar to you having nice soft hands and having to develop callusses.  :)

I'll second that Mr. Spock, I use Bag/balm here for myself and the dogs, it has wonderful results. Swear by it :)

Zinc is  good for dogs pads,but make sure to look up the exact dosages for the dogs weight as it is possible to overdose on zinc