[Dipstick90]

I was just wondering if there is something that I can put on my dogs elbow for his calluses. He is part Akita part Lab, he is also 8 years old. It doesn't seem like it bothers him but I just wanted to see if there was something that I can put on it for him before it gets bigger. He has them on both elbows but the left elbow is worse then the right. Thanks for your help

[JudyKayTee]

What does your Vet say? I've always had big dogs, I don't think I've had a dog that didn't have elbow calluses and the Vet always told me to leave them alone, let them "toughen" up, unless the split or bled, which, incidentally, never happened.

[Aurora_Bell]

I agree, most, if not all bigger dogs get them. You can wash them with epsom salts, which does help soften them up and would clean any infection if there was one. The thing with having soft callouses, is the fact they they can become infected easier, and they can tend to be more painful. If they are cracked you can use a lotion called "Udderly Smooth". It's used on cows udders when they get chaffed, but makes a great hand and body lotion for humans and other animals ;)

[ballengerb1]

I always left them alone figuring God had a plan. When I get a callose on my hand I know I have worked hard and it protected me from a blister.

[shazamataz]

As has been said, it is common larger breeds.

Moisturizing can help, I would try Bellas suggestion of "udderly smooth" or a similar type of moisturizer.

Softer bedding can also help.
Where does he like to lay around? On the floor? Tiles? You may need to put down some floor rugs so he has a bit of added protection on his elbows.

[Lucky098]

My old ladies have never laid on a hard surface in all of their lives, and they have calluses.. Its just to help cusion the joints (as been said many times over).

I wouldn't worry about it if I were you.. Its just a dog thing. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't get big and rough or smushy feeling (water on the elbow/hock).