Your dogs paws smell like Corn Chips?
I got stopped yesterday walking on the street, and the person said…
‘Doc, can you PLEASE tell me why my dog’s paws SMELL like Corn Chips?’
Turns out this can be normal for many dogs… but you’d be surprised what’s causing it.
They also asked about a recommendation for a Holistic anti-inflammatory for their older dog.
I suggested they consider CBD (cannabidiol) as it has been shown to decrease inflammation and provide natural pain relief.
We have a Natural, Whole Plant Extract CBD tincture for Dogs and Cats
It’s here: Dr Jones’ ULTIMATE CBD for Dogs and Cats 
Corn Chip Feet? It’s Natural!
The odor on your pet’s paws is typically nothing to worry about. Bacteria and fungi live on the skin and, when in balance, is healthy and normal. The “Fritos feet” phenomenon is from bacteria called Pseudomonas and Proteus, along with yeast- these are normal inhabitants, but give off a yeasty odor that can smell like corn chips.
Along with these factors, pets sweat through their paws. You can imagine how you smell when you forget your deodorant, right? The odiferous smell is nothing more than sweaty paws, coupled with microbes from your pet’s tongue when they clean them, which further accelerates the bacteria/yeast – and the smell
When Is It a Problem
Pets obviously pick up debris, dirt, bacteria, and other culprits that contribute to dirty feet. This becomes a problem when the paw pads are injured or your pet is immunocompromised or in poor health. Then, this opens the door for infection.
Signs that your pet’s paws may be unhealthy include:
* Inflammation
* Foul smelling odor
* Cut that doesn’t heal
* Recent injury to the paws or feet
* Discharge
* Excessive licking in between the pads
* Marked redness
This suggests an infection that should be treated.
Keeping the Feet Clean
To keep your pet’s paws at their best, here are some simple and effective ways to keep them clean:
* Bathe your pet regularly, paying attention to the paws and between the paw pads.
* Keep your pet’s feet dry.
* Trim long fur on the feet and paws.
* Wash your pet’s feet after a walk through mud, debris, grass, and other dirty environs.
* Consider using pet booties to keep your pet dirt- and injury-free.
Holistic Options
Serious inflammation/infection require a veterinary visit and diagnosis.
Consider a few of these options for less serious inflammation
OTC Yeast treatment: Topical Canesten or Monistat. Apply a thin layer to the affected paws twice day for 5-7 days.
Natural Home Remedy
- Green Tea 1/2 cup
- Apple Cider Vinegar 2 tablespoons
- Lavender Essential Oil 10 drops
Soak your dogs paws in the Green tea mixture twice daily for 5-7 days.
Make a fresh Green Tea Frito Feet batch daily.
Best Wishes,
Dr Andrew
P.S. Most dogs that have ‘Frito Feet’ are completely fine – if there is no redness, and your dog is not licking it, then leave them alone 🙂