Sometimes, calluses can form on a dog’s elbow or hocks.
Although pads and elbow protectors won’t get rid of a callus instantly, they might prevent a callus from growing bigger or thicker, and/or stop new ones from forming (in both instances, a sleeve should reduce abrasion on the callus or skin)
In the guide below, we list some of the more popular dog elbow/hock protectors, sleeves and pads on the market.
We also outline other relevant information about calluses.
Let’s take a closer look!
(NOTE: this is a general information guide only, and is not professional advice, or a substitute for professional advice. A qualified vet or animal expert is the only person qualified to give you expert advice in regards to your pet/s)
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Best Dog Elbow Pads, Protectors & Sleeves For Calluses
Some of the most popular dog elbow pads, protectors and sleeves on the market right now are:
- Nature Pet Dog Elbow Bandage (on Amazon)
- Labra Joint Wrap (on Amazon) (rear leg hock joint wrap)
- Heelbo Elbow Protector (on Amazon)
- Suitical Dog Recovery Sleeve (on Amazon) (front leg protector)
You can even use them with a vet wrap tape for extra padding/bandaging, in case the protector doesn’t fully cover the joint.
As always – ask a vet if using an elbow product for your dog is the best thing to do. They may suggest something else.
What Are Dog Elbow Calluses, What Do They Look Like, and How Do They Form?
Dog calluses are thick and hard skin growth.
They are usually a dark color, scaly and rough, dry, and are flatter than say a tumor or hygroma.
They form as an adaptation to protect your dog’s elbow joint – specifically the bone inside the elbow.
In a similar way that human feet develop calluses from repeated exposure to rough surfaces, a dog’s elbows or hocks might develop calluses when they are repeatedly hit against hard surfaces.
If your dog is constantly laying down or sleeping on hard surfaces, like floorboards or tiles inside your house, this could be one reason why.
Bigger and heavier dogs might be more prone to calluses as there is more force going through the elbow joint and bones.
What Are Dog Elbow Pads, Protectors and Sleeves?
Dog elbow pads, protectors and sleeves are essentially a padded sleeve or brace type product that slide over and fasten around the elbow joint.
They can also sometimes just be a wrap or bandage like product.
They should provide a padded or protective layer between another surface and your dog’s callus or skin.
What Are Dog Elbow Pads, Protectors and Sleeves Used For?
These items are used to provide soft protection to the skin, bones and joint around the elbow against impact from hard surfaces or external surfaces.
In theory, this will help support the joint and help prevent calluses from forming – as this impact can be what causes them to form.
Some protectors are also used as support and to facilitate bandaging for dogs recovering from surgery, or for dogs with joint issues like arthritis.
The protector, sleeve or padding product description or label should describe what the product is used for.
Being Realistic With What An Elbow Protector, Sleeve or Pad Can Do
These products may not do anything but provide a minor layer between your dog’s skin/callus and other surfaces.
They may not help remove a callus at all.
So, keep in mind what they do, and what you’d be getting one for.
How Do You Put A Pad or Sleeve On Your Dog?
It’s really key to get the pads or protectors in the right size so that they don’t fall down or come loose on your dog’s elbows or hocks.
There are the soft elbow pads that slide on and are more elastic so they should grip around your dog’s elbow.
Then, there are the fastening type elbow protectors that usually have a strap or fastener that you fit and fasten around the elbow.
Read the product description or label for instructions on how to put it on your dog.
Types Of Pads and Sleeves
As mentioned, there are the soft pads and sleeves, and the strap type elbow protectors.
THere’s also wraps and bandage type products.
Potential Alternatives To Dog Elbow Protectors
Along with vet checks and a professional veterinary assessment, a soft bedding surface or soft surface to lay down, and a dog elbow cream or dog elbow butter might be alternatives to dog elbow protectors.
Coconut oil is also something that might be able to be used to nourish skin around a dog’s elbow.
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