What Do Your Dog’s Carpal Pads Do?

Most dogs have dewclaws on their front legs and some on their hind legs too; certain breeds can even have double dew claws on some limbs. Dew claws are these unusual claws positioned higher up the leg rather than growing from the footpads. Regardless of dew claw presence, your dog will have an oval patch of tough skin above where dew claws typically grow on the front legs. This patch is called the carpal pad.

Many dog owners aren’t familiar with the term carpal pads, nor realise that these small but vital parts of your dog’s anatomy serve multiple important functions. This article explains the purpose of carpal pads and why they matter for your dog's wellbeing.

What Are the Carpal Pads?

Located on the foreleg just above the front paws and dew claws (if present), carpal pads are easily spotted — though on hairy or feathered breeds like the English Springer Spaniel you may need to part the fur to see them clearly.

Whether your dog has dew claws or not, carpal pads appear only on the front legs. They do not grow on the hind legs, as their functions are specific to the front limbs, which first contact the ground and guide movement.

Carpal pads sit around the wrist (carpus) area and consist of dense, multi-layered, keratin-rich skin similar to the tough paw pads on toes and the large central metacarpal pad, but without any claws.

Like other footpads, carpal pads are flexible, tough, and cushioned with layers of fat beneath thick skin, helping to absorb shock, protect the limb, and act as a type of braking system.

The Role of Carpal Pads in Movement

During normal walking or running, carpal pads generally don’t touch the ground. However, when your dog runs swiftly, especially during a canter or gallop, the carpal pads briefly make contact with the surface in each stride cycle.

This brief contact allows dogs to slow down effectively or make sharp turns safely, working as "emergency brakes". Such functionality is crucial for dogs engaged in working roles such as herding, or competitive canine sports like agility, where fast, precise manoeuvring is required.

Jumping, Landing, and Balance Support

For dogs that enjoy jumping or participate in sports that involve leaping over obstacles, the carpal pads are particularly important when landing. The front feet contact the ground first on landing, and carpal pads touch down to help cushion impact and reduce the risk of injury.

This shock-absorbing role minimises undue stress on limbs and joints, helping dogs control their balance and prevent tumbling after landing.

Carpal pads also contribute to balance and motor control on uneven, slippery, or unstable surfaces, providing extra traction and helping dogs avoid slips and falls.

Health and Care Considerations

Carpal pad injuries are not uncommon and can include cuts, abrasions, or inflammation. Such injuries may also result from joint conditions like arthritis or carpal hyperextension, which affect the wrist and cause pressure or rubbing on the pad.

Veterinarians regard the carpal pad as a vital structure in canine locomotion and joint protection. Owners should monitor for signs of injury or discomfort and seek veterinary attention if problems arise.

In canine sports medicine and working dog care, protecting the carpal pads is essential to maintain a dog’s mobility and performance.

Understanding the carpal pad’s function emphasises caring for your dog’s paws as an important part of responsible pet ownership.