My dog has dry rough spots on the elbow area of his front legs. What is this, and is there a treatment?

Calluses in a canine.

Most dogs, especially those that are slightly older, are prone to developing large calluses on their elbows. These calluses are simply thickened areas of skin at the site of chronic friction and pressure over the point of the elbow. Provided there is no inflammation or lameness, the calluses are unlikely to pose a problem. Although a callus is completely normal, the area can become dry, crack open, and bleed.

If the skin is excessively dry, you may wish to use emollients, lotions, or gel caps containing Vitamin E oil to soften the area. If your dog is resting on hard surfaces, perhaps he can be encouraged to spend more time on cushions or a bed. If you continue to have concerns, if the area cracks and bleeds, or if it seems to grow more like a mass, please have your dog examined by your veterinarian.

06/17/05