What are Corns on Greyhounds?

What are Corns on Greyhounds?
Symptoms of Greyhound Corns
Causes of Greyhound Corns
Greyhound Corn Treatment
Preventing Corns on Greyhounds

Corns on greyhounds are a common condition that causes lameness. Corns are found on the paw pads of greyhounds and can impact the greyhound when racing and in retirement.  In this article, we will discuss what corns are, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

What are Corns on Greyhounds?

A common question asked by greyhound owners is “What are Corns on Greyhounds?”. Corns, also known as footpad keratomas, are thick, hard patches of skin that develop on the paw pads of greyhounds. They can be small and round or larger and irregularly shaped and can sometimes look like a small piece of foreign matter that has become stuck in the pad of the greyhound’s paw. Greyhound corns are typically found on the weight-bearing areas of the paw pads and can cause pain and discomfort for a greyhound when running, walking and standing. They feel like walking around with a pebble/small rock in your shoe constantly. The corn has a deep root that impacts the underlying flexor tendon and the bony attachment. The flexor tendon causes the greyhound’s toes to curl and the pads to come in contact with the ground. If the corn is protruding from the pad of the paw this causes the corn to bear the weight of the greyhound, causing the lameness and pain with every step.

Greyhound corns tend to happen more frequently in retired racers as they spend a higher amount of time walking on hard surfaces than greyhounds who are still training and racing. Not all greyhounds suffer from corns, with less than 10% of all retired greyhounds enduring the pain of corns. Corns are more commonly found in male greyhounds and typically occur in the forelimbs of the greyhound, usually on the two central toes.

Symptoms of Greyhound Corns

The symptoms of corns can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may cause only slight discomfort, while more severe cases can cause limping and difficulty walking. Some common symptoms of corns on greyhounds include:

• Thickened or raised areas of skin on the paw pads.
• Patches of hardened skin that are discoloured (usually yellow or grey).
• Limping, lameness or difficulty walking.
• Holding up a paw whilst standing.
• Showing a preference for walking on softer surfaces such as grass or carpet.
• Excessive licking or chewing at the affected paw.
• Pain or discomfort when the paw is touched or manipulated.

It is worth noting that it is not uncommon for a greyhound to develop corns in more than one paw or foot pad simultaneously, so it is worthwhile checking all your greyhound’s paws.

There are numerous other causes of lameness in greyhounds, which can include:

• Muscle injuries

• Damage to bones and ligaments

Causes of Greyhound Corns

The exact cause of corns on greyhounds is not fully understood. However, several factors are thought to contribute to their development. These include:

• Long Nails: A greyhound whose nails are too long and not trimmed short enough, can change the weight distribution through the paw. The additional weight on specific parts of the paw that are not used to the weight or coming in contact with hard surfaces as often can increase the occurrence of corns for the greyhound.
• Trauma and Pressure: The intense running or continual walking on hard surfaces can lead to trauma and pressure on the foot pad, potentially causing the corns.
• Genetics: Some greyhounds may be more predisposed to developing corns due to their genetics.
• Foot Structure: Greyhounds have relatively thin foot pads, so the lack of cushioning may make them more vulnerable to trauma and pressure. This could then lead to the formation of corns. The greyhound’s high-arched feet may also contribute due to the increased pressure on specific foot areas, making them more prone to corns.
• Weight: Greyhounds that are overweight may be more prone to developing corns due to the increased pressure on their paw pads.
• Nutrition: Some experts believe that certain nutritional deficiencies, particularly biotin may contribute to the development of corns.
• Activity level: Greyhounds that participate in high-impact activities, such as racing or jumping, may be more prone to developing corns.
• Hygiene and Moisture: The greyhound’s paws not being clean could lead to the accumulation of dirt and debris, increasing the risk of infections and formation of corns. If the greyhound is constantly exposed to wet environments this may soften the foot pads, making them more susceptible to injury and the development of corns.

It’s important to consider that while these factors might contribute to the development of corns in your greyhound, each dog is unique. The exact cause can vary from one greyhound to the next. If your greyhound shows signs of discomfort, limping, or favouring a specific paw you should check the paw for any signs of a corn. If you are not confident in diagnosing the issue consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment options.

Greyhound Corn Treatment

The treatment for greyhound corns will depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, simply trimming the affected area of the paw pad and applying a topical ointment may be enough to relieve the dog’s discomfort. In more severe cases, more aggressive treatment may be necessary. Some treatment options include:

• Filing or flattening: Using a sterile file to gently file and flatten the corn so it does not protrude from the pad of the paw can reduce the pain that is experienced by the greyhound. This stops the corn from making contact with the ground as hard and as often and the greyhound’s weight is dispersed across the pad of the paw more.
• Pad Softening Balm/Ointment: The application of a pad softening balm or ointment can assist with the treatment of corns on greyhounds. The balm gradually softens the pad of the paw and can reduce the pain caused by corns.
• Orthotics or Shoes: The introduction of shoes or boots/booties can assist with the treatment and occurrence of corns. Special pads or cushions may be added to your greyhound’s shoes to relieve pressure on the affected paw pad. These will also protect your greyhound’s feet and prevent further trauma to the affected area.
• Surgery: In some cases, the affected area of the paw pad may need to be surgically removed to allow for proper healing. There are three main surgery options:
  • Hulling: Hulling is a surgical procedure to remove the corn and its root. This is the most common and effective treatment for corns on greyhounds.
  • Superficial digital flexor tenotomy: This surgical procedure involves cutting a tendon in the greyhound’s foot. This assists in the reduction of pressure on the corn and makes it less likely to reoccur.
  • Toe Amputation: It may be necessary in severe cases to amputate the toe where the corn is located. This is necessary to relieve the pain and prevent further issues but is only undertaken as a last resort. Whilst this permanently solves the corn problem in the amputated toe it is not uncommon for a corn to develop in another toe of the same foot.
• Lifestyle Changes: Limiting physical activity, especially on hard surfaces can prevent further irritation and pressure on the foot pads. Encouraging your greyhound to walk on grass or carpeted areas instead of hard floors can minimise discomfort.
• Wound Care: If there is an infection present, antibiotics might be prescribed for your greyhound to prevent or treat secondary infections. Bandaging the wound might be required after corn removal to protect the wound and promote healing. Topical ointments containing antimicrobial agents or healing substances to aid in the healing process may be recommended.
• Cryotherapy: This treatment involves freezing the corn with liquid nitrogen to destroy the affected tissue.
• Dietary Supplements: Biotin supplements are believed to promote healthy skin and foot pads. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian before adding any supplements to your greyhound’s diet.
• Follow-Up Veterinary Visits: Regular follow-up visits to your veterinarian are essential to monitor the healing process, check for signs of infection, and adjust the treatment plan if required.

Preventing Corns on Greyhounds

Preventing corns on greyhounds is essential to ensure the health and well-being of your dog. Some tips for preventing corns include:

• Feeding your greyhound a balanced diet that provides all the necessary nutrients for good paw health.
• Trimming and maintaining your dog’s nails to promote even weight distribution on the paw pad when walking. For more information read our article on How to Trim Your Greyhound’s Nails.
• Keeping your greyhound at a healthy weight to prevent excessive pressure on the paw pads.
• Providing your greyhound with appropriate footwear during high-impact activities. Make sure the boots or shoes fit well and do not put any undue pressure on your greyhound’s feet.
• Keeping your greyhound’s paw pads clean and dry to prevent infections.
• Limit your greyhound’s exposure to hard surfaces. Avoid walking or running your greyhound on hard surfaces, such as concrete or asphalt. If you frequently walk your greyhound on a hard surface, use protective boots or booties.
• Check your greyhound’s feet regularly. Look for any signs of corns, such as redness, swelling or tenderness.
• Treat any underlying toe deformities. If your greyhound has any toe deformities, such as hammertoes or overlapping toes, talk to your veterinarian about treatment options to prevent the issue from placing undue stress on your greyhound’s paw pads.

Corns are a painful and uncomfortable condition that can affect greyhounds. While the exact cause of the condition is not fully understood, several factors are thought to contribute to their development. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition, but prevention is key. By providing your greyhound with a healthy diet, appropriate footwear, and good hygiene practices, you can help prevent the development of corns and keep your dog healthy and happy.